KOCHI: “The midfield got a little bit detached on occasions, and strikers have to improve their shooting.” Kerala Blasters coach Steve Coppell was politely honest about his side ahead of their previous ISL match against Delhi Dynamos. Over three matches this season, Blasters have had just one shot on target, and are yet to score.
The comments of the coach, and the stats, reveal the quagmire the Yellow Brigade find themselves in. Ahead of their encounter with Mumbai City FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Friday, they will be hoping to iron out creases in midfield and upfront, and score goals.
Against Delhi, the Kochi franchise’s attack and midfield were lively, but a goal eluded them. English striker Michael Chopra dropped back to pick the ball and fed Antonio German and Duckens Nazon. The trio should start against Mumbai, and the team will desperately look to break the goal jinx.
However, Cedric Hengbart, who suffered a groin injury in the previous game, looks doubtful. Hebgbart and Sandesh Jhingan were instrumental in nullifying Delhi’s attack, and his absence might prove costly. However, marquee player Aaron Hughes, who has rejoined the squad after playing for Northern Ireland at the World Cup qualifiers, is fit to play and is likely to replace Hengbart.
With an expected full house lending full weight behind their team, Blasters will be hoping to take advantage of home conditions. “The players fully understand the responsibility of trying to entertain these fabulous fans, and went flat out to try and give them the victory they desire. I personally feel we’re very close (to winning). As a team, we’re capable of winning five or six matches on the bounce,” said Coppell.
On the other hand, Mumbai, who are second in the table, will be a tough nut to crack. They have already steamrolled current table-toppers NorthEast United, and managed to block Atletico de Kolkata’s march, despite the absence of injured marquee player Diego Forlan. The Uruguayan’s replacement, Boithang Haokip, was also up to the mark, and his combination with attacking midfielder Matias Defederico can shred apart any defense.
It has been learnt that Forlan will miss the Mumbai match as well. Limelight will also be on Aiborlang Khongjee — another talented footballer from the North East — who has been a vital cog in defence. Nevertheless, what has set the Mumbai side apart from the rest is their hunger to win. And coach Alexandre Guimaraes was expecting full points.
“I would have liked to have nine points, and I think we played with the intention of getting maximum points. But that’s how the game is. More than points, what needs to be focused on are performances.,” said the Costa Rican.
shan.as@newindianexpress.com