I-League Preview: Mahindra United – Viva Kerala

No More Halts...

Frustration seemed to have crept in after the Red Devils were undone by the officiating in their last three outings which saw them earn three instead of a full nine points. It’s like when you do everything right and then, you have a decision which nullifies all your efforts!

Form wise, Mahindra United did well at the back in their last outing and had their first clean sheet. This was after a disastrous defending at the back which allowed Chirag to comeback late and even come out victorious. 

They are unbeaten so far along with the other top four teams and on current form; they are the favourites to keep their record intact.

Mahindra United’s ratio of converting the opportunities that come their way is far too less and that is something which is of a concern to them. The sooner it’s resolved the better for the Mumbai club who despite the draws, look serious contenders for the title this season along with Dempo, Mohun Bagan and Churchill Brothers.

How Do We Score?

Though Viva Kerala aren’t at the rock bottom of the I-League table, their 13th position isn’t something to be proud of. In their five outings, the southern club has netted merely four times, and all of them came against a team who is doing even worse than them – Sporting Clube De Goa.

It’s imperative for Viva to find their way; else they will soon be displacing Sporting from the unenviable spot.

Playing Mahindra United wouldn’t be easy but they can take heart from the fact that they had drawn against the Mumbai giants the last time they travelled to Mumbai in the 2007-08 season.

The newcomers have an inexperienced side at their disposal and their game will depend on how quickly the youngsters can adapt to the I-League level.

Form Guide

Mahindra United

JCT 0-0 Mahindra United
Mahindra United 2-2 Chirag United
Dempo SC 2-2 Mahindra United

Viva Kerala

Viva Kerala 0-1 East Bengal
Viva Kerala 4-2 Sporting Clube De Goa
Mohun Bagan 2-0 Viva Kerala

Team News

Mahindra United...

Debabrata Roy returns after serving a one match suspension while Steven Dias has recovered from the stomach bout he suffered at JCT. Kali shall have a day off having picked up two yellow cards.

Viva Kerala

M.Sakeer and K.Anish are available for selection after missing out on the last match due to suspension while full-back Noushad is injured.

Players To Watch

Mahindra United

Mohammed Rafi oozed class against Chirag United scoring thrice, with one goal being controversially disallowed. Playing against a team from his home state, would give him the extra motivation to perform.

Viva Kerala

Skipper M.Sakeer’s creativity was missing when the side faced East Bengal and his inclusion shall be a confidence booster for the fellow team-mates as well.

Key Areas...

If Mahindra United can score first, it will be very difficult for the visitors to come back unless the home team’s back line goes to sleep as they did in their last game in Mumbai.     

Rahul Bali.