Kerala Blasters vs ATK Player ratings: How did KBFC players fare

by Intern November 17, 2017

The inaugural match of the fourth edition of the revamped Indian Super League saw arch-rivals Kerala Blasters and ATK battling it out each other to secure a point. The ardent fans, who made it into the stadium were left, after witnessing an enthralling game, where both sides playing the attacking brand of football.

Paul Rachubka of Kerala Blasters FC claims the high ball during match 1 of the Hero Indian Super League between Kerala Blasters FC and Atletico de Kolkata FC 
Photo by: Ron Gaunt / ISL / SPORTZPICS

The hosts, Kerala Blasters had a decent game, and let’s have a look at how the players fared.

Kerala Blasters

Paul Rachubka – 8

The veteran English custodian performed a solid, dazzling display at the goal for the hosts. Paul was there to thwart the deleterious attacks from the ATK raiders at the early stages and was able to make cleansheet at the back.

Nemanja Lakic Pesic – 8

The ‘Man of the Match’, Serbain defender Nemanja Lakic Pesic was a beauty to witness. He had an incredible debut for the side, and his elegant play, alongwith precise tackles has helped Kerala Blasters keep the ATK attackers at it’s bay.

Rino Anto – 6

The local boy, Rino Anto had only a moderate play this evening. Although he was successful in denying the attacks, he failed to connect the attackers with perfect crosses, and passes. His crosses aiming the box were poor.

Sandesh Jhingan- 7

The captain, Sandesh Jhingan, performed as usual. The tenacious defender paired up with Serbian Nemanja Lakic Pesic, and managed to perform a solid, persistent show at the back line. His alarming presence has helped his side curb away many into the box.

Hitesh Sharma of Atletico de Kolkata FC and Robin Singh of Atletico de Kolkata FC in action during match 1 of the Hero Indian Super League between Kerala Blasters FC and Atletico de Kolkata FC
Photo by: Faheem Hussain / ISL / Sportzpics

Lalruatthara – 7

Lalruatthara had a fine start for the Kerala Blasters. This young talent was good in denying the attacks, as well going upfront to provide attackers the assistance.

Milan Singh – 8

One of the finest performer on the field for Kerala Blasters, Milan Singh did well in orchestrating the game, and his thuderous long range shots were beauties.

Arata Izumi – 5

Izumi had an atrocious day at the office. The midfielder failed to act as the linchpin for his side, which eventually saw ATK dominating the play. A player renowned for his attacking-mind, Arata Izumi this evening was a shadow of himself this evening.

Courage Pekuson – 7

The Ghananian youngster had a good start with the tuskers, and he was in command of their attacking duty in the middle of the park. Pekuson did well in attacking, but was lacked by poor, inaccuarte passes.

CK Vineeth – 6

A clinical finisher who has the ability to demolish any defenses, CK Vineeth was kept tightly by the alert ATK defense. He was not given a space to exploit by the ATK defenders, unless on the occasion where he dribbled past them, but the shot he fired was denied by Debjit.

Iain Hume – 6

Akin to that of CK Vineeth, Iain was also kept strongly by the ATK defenders, and Kerala’s returning hero had not so good party at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium. His ventures to go attack were refuted by the ample ATK defenders. His frustrating performance made Rene replace him with Mark Sifneos.

Dimitar Berbatov – 5

He was past his prime in this game. He had a baffling start for the Kerala Blasters’ and he hardly made any impact on their game. He was unable to let the defenders run for their money, as the Bulgarian legend failed to be a threat, and was a breakdown in making the ATK defense look vulnerable.

Match Report: Blasters, ATK settle for a point each in opener

Also Read: Key Stories: Kerala Blasters vs ATK

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