Super League Kerala 2024: Calicut FC earn last-minute stalemate against Kannur Warriors FC

Calicut trailed for the entire game but leveled the proceedings late on.

The highly anticipated Round 5 of the Super League Kerala kicked off with an emotional derby between Calicut FC and Kannur Warriors FC at the EMS Corporation Stadium, Calicut. As both teams share this ground as their home turf, the stands were packed with passionate supporters from both sides, creating an electrifying atmosphere for the game.

Before the kickoff, a heartfelt tribute was paid to Arjun, a victim of the recent Shirur landslide. In a noble gesture, Calicut FC announced that all revenue generated from the match would be donated to Arjun’s family, demonstrating the club’s solidarity with the local community in their time of grief.

On the field, Calicut FC, under manager Ian Andrew Gillan, was determined to secure their first home win of the season, while Kannur Warriors, riding high on confidence after a hard-fought victory over Malappuram FC in Manjeri last week, approached the match looking to maintain their momentum.

Match Report

Calicut FC manager Ian Andrew Gillan set the tone for an aggressive game, deploying Gani Ahmmed and Belfort as the key attacking forces for the home side. However, Kannur Warriors, known for their rhythm and well-organized passing, made it difficult for Calicut to find their flow. Kannur’s structured play forced Calicut into a more reactive position, with the home team struggling to maintain possession in the first half.

Despite some promising attacking moves from Calicut, Kannur dominated ball possession, utilizing the flanks to drive their offense. Forward Gafoor led the charge for Kannur, continuously breaking into Calicut’s defensive half, and creating multiple opportunities to score.

However, Calicut’s goalkeeper, Vishal Joon, made several crucial saves, keeping his team in the game. Despite the pressure and attacking intent from both teams, the first half ended in a goalless draw.

Kannur Warriors FC started the second half with the same momentum they had built in the first, controlling possession and testing Calicut FC’s defense at every opportunity. Despite the pressure, Calicut FC tried to regain their foothold in the match and worked hard to turn the tide in their favor.

In the 61st minute, a long ball from Kannur’s backline found Asier Gomes in the middle of the park. With a deft flick, Gomes set up captain Adrian Sardinero, who made a blistering run down the right flank, carrying the ball into the box and slotting home a superb goal. This strike put Kannur Warriors ahead, silencing the home fans for a moment.

The goal ignited a spark in Calicut FC, and they shifted into a higher gear, desperately searching for an equalizer. Their relentless efforts saw them attacking Kannur’s defense repeatedly, but the opposition stood firm.

However, in stoppage time at 90+1 minutes, Calicut FC’s Britto stole the show once again. In a brilliant solo effort, he dribbled past three defenders and unleashed a shot from outside the box, finding the back of the net and sending the Calicut fans into a frenzy. The thrilling derby concluded in a 1-1 draw, with both teams sharing the spoils in an electrifying encounter.

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