ISL 5: Everything about Kerala Blasters vs FC Pune City
Two struggling teams Kerala Blasters and Pune City face each other in a crunch encounter in the ongoing edition of Indian Super League (ISL). Blasters are seventh on the table and Pune find themselves lying second from bottom. Therefore, both sides are seeking a revival to salvage their campaign. There is everything to play for. Here is our match preview.
Blasters in search of second win in ISL 5
Blasters showed some improvement in their last match against Jamshedpur. And they will want to continue in the same vein to get the desired result. Their poor show in the ongoing ISL season has resulted in just one win in ten matches. Therefore, a loss tonight for David James and Co. would hurt the team badly and kill hopes of finishing in top four.
Pune have been dismal this season
Pune, on the other hand, have already conceded 21 goals in just 10 matches. Like Kerala, they have won just a solitary match. Their chances of finishing strongly seem bleak, but the Stallions can hope for a spirited show starting tonight. They lost their previous two encounters and will want to avoid a third defeat on the trot.
View from both camps
Kerala coach David James wasn't happy with his side's result in the previous match. He highlighted the need of a win. "Pressure is subjective, isn't it? We have to win every game, be it Pune or Bengaluru." Pune's interim boss Pradhyum Reddy said, "I think every game so far, it is a do or die. Three points can propel you up the table."
Kerala Blasters vs Pune City: Players to watch out for
Kerala's Sahal Abdul Samad will look to dictate proceedings in mid-field for Kerala. The local boy has been a regular for the side and can put in some delightful balls leading to the attack. For FC Pune City, Ashique Kuruniyan will be wanting to bomb down the wing and beat Kerala with some sheer pace. He will be key in making things happen.
When and where to watch the match?
The match is set to be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi. The game is scheduled for a 7:30 PM kick-off. One can watch the tie live on the Star Sports network. The match can also be streamed live on Hotstar. Kerala haven't won a single game in their previous five matches. Pune have won one and lost four in the same period.
