Indian Player Ratings: Lalruatthara and Mehtab Hossain impress in goalless draw as Vineeth disappoints

Kerala Blasters drew their second home game n the bounce while Jamshedpur did the same on the road.

Kerala Blasters start-studded attacking line-up failed to find back of the net for the second game running, as Jamshedpur FC held them to a goalless draw in an Indian Super League (ISL) in Kochi.

Though Blasters had more possession, Jamshedpur created more chances in the game. Mehtab Hossain deservingly won the ‘Hero of the Match’ award.

Here's how the Indian players from both sides fared in the contest 

Kerala Blasters

Rino Anto – 5/10

The former Bengaluru FC defender had another disappointing outing in the yellow jersey. Anto was rarely threatening in the attacking front and failed to link up with Jackichand Singh. Both Dimitar Berbatov and Rene Muelensteen were visibly frustrated with the 29-year-old.

Sandesh Jhingan – 7/10

The Blasters captain was at his usual best. He didn’t allow the Jamshedpur FC attackers to roam around in the home side's half and was instrumental in keeping Izu Azuka and Trindade Goncalves at bay.

Lalruatthara – 7/10

The 22-year-old, who had a quiet game against ATK, put on a decent show for the hosts. He pestered the Jamshedpur defence all evening. It was his cross from the left that led to Berbatov forcing a save from Subrata Paul.

Arata Izumi – 6.5/10

Izumi, like his opposite number Mehtab Hossain, produced a solid performance in the heart of midfield. Though, he was at fault for Jamshedpur FC’s first shot on goal, the former Pune City midfielder provided some fine passes for the wingers and kept Gonclaves in check.

CK Vineeth – 6/10

Vineeth misses big chance for Blasters

Vineeth, who was Kerala Blasters’ hero last season, struggled to make an impact. Deployed on the left, he rarely threatened Jamshedpur FC’s backline. The Keralite also missed the best chance in the game for the hosts as his header from a Iain Hume cross went over the bar.

Jackichand Singh – 6/10

Like Vineeth, Jackichand had a quiet evening in Kochi. Apart from a shot on goal, the India international didn't have much to offer. The winger, who replaced Milan Singh in the starting XI, failed to impress the Blasters faithful.

Prasanth K – 6/10

Though he impressed against ATK, Prasanth failed to get going after replacing Jackichand. He was more restricted to Blasters’ half and his first touch let him down when fed by Berbatov.

Milan Singh – 6/10

He came on for Courage Pekuson in the dying minutes of the game and provided necessary support to Blasters' backline.

Jamshedpur FC

Subrata Paul – 7/10

Apart from making a decent save from Berbatov’s attempt in the first half, Subrata Paul didn’t have much to do in the game. The ‘Spiderman’ kept things tight and produced a solid display.

Blasters fans welcome back Coppell in style

 

Shouvik Ghosh – 6/10

The left-back was more focused on his defensive duties and let Belfort do all the attacking from the left wing. He kept a close watch on Anto and Jackichand and stopped the duo from making darting runs into the box.

Anas Edathodika – 6.5/10

Anas proved why he is rated so highly in Indian football as he warded off Hume’s threat. He was a towering presence in Jamshedur FC’s defence and was taken off after he picked up a slight niggle.

Souvik Chakrabarty – 6.5/10

Souvik provided excellent support to attacking winger Jerry Mawihmingthanga. The duo made life difficult for Kerala Blasters defenders in the early minutes of the game. He faced a stern test from Blasters left-back Lalruatthara. 

Hero of the Match Mehtab Hossain post-match interview

Mehtab Hossain – 7.5/10

The former Kerala Blasters midfielder was arguably the best player on the pitch. He picked up a fight with Berbatov and spearheaded defensive responsibilities. Knowing the Bulgarian’s threat, Hossain shadowed him all day and ensured Berbatov couldn’t provide the final ball to Hume.

Jerry Mawihmingthanga – 6.5/10

Jerry impressed Steve Coppell with an excellent first half performance. The 20-year-old drilled teasing crosses and was a constant menace for Jhingan and Co. If not for Rachubka’s fine save, Jerry could have been the hero for Jamshedpur in Kochi.

Farukh Choudhary – 5.5/10

Farukh, a former Blasters player, came on for Jerry and had an attempt from distance saved easily by Rachubka. He also received a yellow card for a foul on Berbatov.

Bikash Jairu – 6/10

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Jairu, who came on for Anas, might have had an instant impact on the game if his pass from the left had found a red shirt inside the Blasters box.