Late penalty saves ATK the blushes

Kolkata, October 2 

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Defending champions Chennaiyin FC and Atletico de Kolkata played out a highly-entertaining 2-2 draw in their campaign opener in the Indian Super League here today.

In a fast-paced match, ATK took the lead in the 59th minute through Sameehg Doutie but Chennaiyin struck back soon with goals from Jayesh Rana (66th) and Hans Mulder (70th). The hosts restored parity through Ian Hume, who scored from the spot in the 86th minute.

After a barren first half, both sides pressed for goals. Despite falling behind, the visitors fought back. With two goals in the space of four minutes, Chennaiyin looked set to tame ATK in their backyard. But Jerry Lalrinzuala brought Sameehg Doutie down inside the box to gift the hosts a penalty. The goalkeeper guessed the direction of Hume’s shot correctly but failed to get enough behind the ball to make the save.

ATK had more possession and more shots at goal, but their forwards, including marquee player Helder Postiga and Hume, were unable to find the Chennaiyin net. Late in the match, Hume wasted two chances before scoring from the spot. Luck also favoured Chennaiyin as their second goal came after a harmless-looking shot from Mulder was deflected in off an ATK defender. — PTI