Robust Delhi Dynamos burst FC Pune City bubble

by Kaushal Shukla October 14, 2015

Delhi Dynamos dished out yet another solid performance as Roberto Carlos’ men inflicted a 2-1 defeat on FC Pune City at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune. The loss was the first of this Indian Super League (ISL) season for David Platt’s men and it came as a reality check for the high flying Punekars who had clearly got better results compared to their performances in the first two games.

The hosts made a bright start to the game and enjoyed better ball possession in the opening fifteen minutes of the game as the visitors were content to sit back and absorb the early pressure. But in the 24th minute, Delhi Dynamos grabbed the lead when Robin Singh rose highest to head home a free kick. The goal settled the Dynamos as they began to express themselves a lot more in the game.

FC Pune City were denied what looked like a clear penalty in the final minute of the first half, when Lenny Rodrigues was brought down inside the box, but the referee didn’t notice it and Delhi Dynamos escaped.

Inspired by David Platt’s half time team talk, FC Pune City were a far more improved team than in the first half. The Puneakrs posed a greater threat to the solid Delhi Dynamos defence as Riise and co. had to be at their very best to keep the hosts at bay.

There was massive drama deep into stoppage time as Delhi Dynamos profited from FC Pune City throwing numbers forward in attack in search of an equalizer, when Dos Santos eased past the defender on the left to set up substitute Richard Gadze, leaving him with a tap in to double Delhi’s lead and seal the win for the Dynamos.

But there was to be yet another twist in the tale, as FC Pune City reduced the deficit through Nigerian striker Kali Uche and spark hopes of a late comeback, but there was hardly time for the play to restart as FC Pune City fell to their first defeat.

David Platt will now need to lift his team as they head into a series of away games. The Hritik Roshan co-owned outfit haven’t played the best football in the league but have been efficient enough to grind our results at home. But today, Roberto Carlos’ men proved to be too strong for the Punekars.

The defeat will serve as reality check as FC Pune City prepare for time away from the Balewadi Stadium.