Headline: Kerala Blasters Secure Victory with Second-Half Surge Against Punjab FC
Dimitrios Diamantakos from Kerala Blasters FC scored his fifth goal in the ISL 2023-24 season against Punjab FC.
The visiting team, following its usual pattern of strong second halves this season, scored quickly in the second half. Dimitrios Diamantakos converted a penalty after Aimen was fouled with a rough tackle in the box.
Kerala Blasters came alive in the second half after a goalless first half and managed to win three points against Punjab FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi on Thursday, December 14th.
The visiting team, continuing its trend of strong second halves this season, scored early in the second half. Dimitrios Diamantakos converted a penalty after Aimen was fouled with a reckless tackle in the box.
Even though Kerala began the game with energy, their early efforts didn’t result in goals. On the other hand, Punjab gradually improved and had chances with Luka Majcen and Nikhil Pradhan, but their finishing wasn’t accurate.
In the second half, there was a change in the game’s momentum as Kerala’s determination paid off. Diamantakos scored from the penalty spot, marking his fifth goal of the season and bringing a crucial boost to the visitors’ performance.
The goal triggered a flurry of aggressive plays from Kerala. Vibin’s free-kick hit the goal frame, Lescovic’s header struck the post, and Kotal’s shot was stopped by Punjab’s goalkeeper Kiran Chemjong.
Punjab, eager for their first win, missed crucial opportunities as well. Luka Majcen made a careless pass after stealing the ball from Kotal. Despite Punjab’s efforts to score and level the game, Lescovic acted as a solid defense, making a remarkable block to stop Jordan in the final moments.
Despite some anxious moments towards the end, Kerala stayed strong and is now tied in points with the league leader, FC Goa. Meanwhile, Punjab remains near the bottom with an ongoing streak of not winning.
The victory was especially significant for Ivan Vukomanovic’s team, considering the rumors about their leader and key player, Adrian Luna, potentially being sidelined for the remainder of the season.
