Super League Kerala 2024: Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC's late equaliser spoils Malappuram FC hopes

The visitors were the better side for a long period before the hosts restored parity.

Thiruvananthapuram Kombans secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Malappuram FC in the final match of Round 5 of the Super League Kerala at Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium. A late equalizer from substitute Vyshnav in the 86th minute salvaged a point for the home side after Malappuram had taken the lead through Alejandro Sanchez in the first half.

In the final match of round five of the Super League Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram Kombans faced off against Malappuram FC at the iconic Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium in Trivandrum. This match not only marked Kombans’ attempt to bounce back after their recent defeat to Forca Kochi but also saw Malappuram FC aiming to secure a much-needed victory, as they currently sit second last on the points table.

With passionate fans from both sides filling the stadium in the state’s capital city, the atmosphere was electric as Kombans sought to regain momentum on their home turf. Meanwhile, John Gregory’s Malappuram FC entered the contest with similar intent, aiming to climb the standings and make a strong impact in the league.

Match Report

The visiting Malappuram FC controlled the tempo of the game from the outset, dominating possession and launching continuous attacking moves against Thiruvananthapuram Kombans. Kombans struggled to gain a foothold in the opening minutes, as Malappuram’s offensive lineup, led by starlet Faslurahman, constantly pressured the home team’s defense. However, despite creating multiple opportunities, Malappuram failed to capitalize on their chances in the Kombans’ half.

Thiruvananthapuram Kombans attempted to counterattack, relying on quick transitions and winger Ashar’s impressive runs down the right flank. However, Malappuram’s defense held firm, denying the home team access to their box.

In the 32nd minute, Malappuram’s forward Alejandro Sanchez capitalized on a mistake by Kombans’ keeper Pawan Kumar, who had advanced off his line, and skillfully lobbed the ball over his head to give Malappuram a deserved lead. Kombans pushed for an equalizer before halftime, but the first half ended with Malappuram holding a 1-0 lead.

Vaishnav rescues a late point for Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC as they end the game in a stalemate against Malappuram FC❎#IndianFootball #KeralaFootball #superleaguekerala pic.twitter.com/zVhZ8ldVgw

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) October 2, 2024

In the second half, Thiruvananthapuram Kombans pushed hard for an equalizer, ramping up their attacking play with intricate passing. Malappuram FC, however, stood firm, maintaining their lead and continuing to threaten the Kombans’ defense with occasional visits to their box.

Kombans’ captain, Patrick Mota, returning from suspension, played a pivotal role in distributing the ball from the midfield, trying to orchestrate an offensive breakthrough. Malappuram missed several key opportunities to extend their lead, including a couple of one-on-one chances.

The game took a dramatic turn in the 86th minute when Kombans earned a corner. Mota delivered a perfectly aimed cross to the second post, where Vyshnav, who had come on as a substitute for Ashar, struck the ball into the net, sending the Kombans’ fans into a frenzy.

Both teams pressed hard for a winner in the final minutes, but the match concluded in a 1-1 draw, with Thiruvananthapuram Kombans once again securing a thrilling last-minute equalizer at the Chandreshekharan Nair Stadium.

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