Krishna wins it for ATK in ISL opener

Bambolim, November 20

In their new avatar, ATK Mohun Bagan kicked off the seventh season of the Indian Super League on a high, defeating Kerala Blasters 1-0 here today. Fiji’s Roy Krishna, who was ATK’s top goal-scorer with 15 goals last season, struck the all important goal in the 67th minute.

Kerala played with a heavy defensive lineup and managed to thwart ATKMB in the first half. ATKMB made some early inroads, with Krishna missing an early chance, even as KBFC enjoyed more ball possession in the first 45 minutes.

KBFC came out with an attacking intent in the second half. But they were made to pay for it. They failed to deal with a loose ball which Krishna pounced on before making amends for his three misses in the first half.

Mumbai aiming for fresh start, face NorthEast

Vasco: A revamped Mumbai City FC, with a new coach and 19 new recruits, will be aiming for a positive start in pursuit of a maiden ISL title when they take on NorthEast United here tomorrow.

Mumbai had finished fifth last year, just missing out on the four-team playoffs. They would be hoping to get past that hurdle under new coach Sergio Lobera.

Lobera, who had guided FC Goa to a Super Cup win in 2019, has advocated attacking brand of football. “It is very important to play attacking football. Obviously, we need balance… you need balance between attack and defence,” Lobera said.

NorthEast United FC had a poor last season, finishing second-last. They would also be hoping to change their fortunes under new coach Gerard Nus. — PTI