MALAPPURAM: Usman Ashik struck twice as Kerala ensured their progression into the final round with a resounding 4-0 win against Karnataka in the 69th Santosh Trophy Group A qualifiers at the District Sports Council Stadium at Manjeri on Monday.
Jobby Justin and Jimshad U also got their names on the score-sheet for the hosts, who only required a draw to move on to the second leg after a thumping 6-0 win over Andhra Pradesh in their opening fixture.
In a match that saw Karnataka captain Xaviour Vijaya Kumar getting the marching orders for receiving two yellows, Kerala largely dominated the proceedings. Coach PK Rajeev made just a single change to his starting XI, bringing Usman in place of Nasrudhhen C up front whereas Karnataka coach JL Andrew replaced three players after their dismal show against Andhra Pradesh.
In just the 8th minute, Usman got the hosts off to a fine start with an opportunistic drive. The Palakkad native put the ball into the back of the net after Suhair’s shot from close range cannoned off the Karnataka keeper.
Usman doubled the lead in the 25th minute from the penalty spot after Jobby Justin was pushed off his feet by B V Chetan Kumar inside the box, The referee, who was well positioned to see the challenge, had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.