Talking Points: Amarjit Singh Kiyam to adapt to a new role?

The hosts registered their first win of the season after a disappointing season opener against Chennai City FC. 

In an evening kickoff in Cuttack, Indian Arrows sunk in Shillong Lajong with a goal from Arrows full back Ashish Rai which made all the difference in the fixture. The match was a unique game of the league, without any foreign players on the pitch. While both the sides put in commendable efforts but the Indian Arrows showed more temperament and discipline on the pitch. 

Both teams had a horde of chances, but it was certainly not a day for the forwards in front of goal. Here are the talking points from the match.

5. Lajong incompetent in the final third

They defended well, they build the game well and were surely at pare with the pace of Indian Arrows but the incompetence in front of goal is what they really lacked. Time and again Lajong players were clear to run towards the goal and their indecisiveness made them pay for the three points.

The lack of a tall striker too made a difference against the back line of Anwar Ali and Narendra.

4. Lalengmawia is the support that Arrows midfield need

Playing in a makeshift midfield, Lalengmawia and Amarjit Singh Kiyam paired off well. The defensive arsenal of Lalengmawia provided the free space and the motivation for Amarjit to move forward which made the difference against Lajong midfield. 

Lalrohlua and Kynshi were left clueless with the link-up play of Lalengmawia and Amarjit, who are going to be important for Indian Arrows in the season to come.

3. Lajong's width troubled them against Arrows

The streamline formation on the field often makes it difficult to capitalise the chance in the final third and the game was a testament to that. The tucking in of wingers Buam and Hnamte made it tough for Lajong to make the most of the chances created.

The presence of Amarjit and Lalengmawia too made the difference on the narrow approach. They primarily attacked from the centre and whenever they went on the sides, they were instantly closed down by Ashish Rai and Remy.

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2. Arrows need to take more chance around the box

One of the major things the blue colts lacked last season and something they need to improve this season too is the lack of attempts on goal. Their forwards are often caught and overpowered by the opposing defence but lack of shots is getting visible now. 

The team is fast, they are getting defensively competent and now all they lack is the attacking drive in and around the box.

1. Amarjit Singh flourished in his new role

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Having played in the FIFA U-17 World Cup and the I-league 2017-18, we all saw Amarjit Singh Kiyam playing as a box-to-box midfielder but with Lalengmawia, he is able to move forward and play in the box. 

The game against Lajong came as a surprise for the spectators as Amarjit was seen running down the centre of the pitch, just behind the strikers in a thirst to create chances and attack.