Gokulam Kerala FC edges out Kerala Blasters FC in thrilling Kerala derby duel

by Chittu Shetty August 13, 2023

In a roller-coaster Kerala derby fans were left on the edge of their seats as Gokulam Kerala edged Kerala Blasters with a nail-biting 4-3 scoreline.

Amidst an unassuming start, Kerala Blasters gradually seized control of the ball, aiming to set the tempo. However, a twist of fate saw Gokulam’s Bouba Aminou find the back of the net from a Nili Perdomo corner, catching everyone off guard and propelling his side into an early lead in the enthralling Kerala Derby.

Undeterred, Kerala Blasters mounted a spirited comeback, launching a series of relentless attacks to level the score. In the 34th minute, a remarkable turn of events unfolded – a ricochet off the crossbar, a scramble in the box – all leading to Justine Emmanuel expertly slotting the ball home, equalizing and reigniting the fervor among Blasters’ faithful supporters.

The pendulum then swung back in Gokulam Kerala’s favor, as the I-League contenders rallied with remarkable vigor. The first half witnessed a flurry of action, culminating in Sreekuttan VS and Alex Sanchez each finding the net, catapulting Gokulam to a 3-1 advantage at the halftime whistle.

Post the break, Gokulam Kerala FC continued their relentless pursuit of victory. Captain Sanchez orchestrated a breathtaking play, setting the stage for Abhijith to unleash a thunderous strike from long range, leaving the net trembling in its wake. The Malabarians were displaying football at its finest.

Kerala Blasters, however, refused to yield. Their fighting spirit shone as Prabir Das and Adrian Luna masterfully converted opportunities, sending waves of excitement through the crowd. Yet, the valiant efforts fell just short, unable to rescue a point from the gripping encounter.

A defining moment arrived as Bidyshagar Singh, a substitute forward, faced an open chance to level the score but faltered from close range, encapsulating the heartbreak for the Blasters.

Looking ahead, Kerala Blasters FC gears up for an enticing clash against arch-rivals Bengaluru FC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, promising another chapter of pulsating football drama.

The Kerala Derby spectacle epitomized the essence of the Durand Cup, igniting football fervor and setting the stage for an exhilarating tournament ahead.

Full Time: Gokulam Kerala FC 4 – 3 Kerala Blasters FC

Also Read: Durand Cup: East Bengal reignites derby glory with stunning win over Mohun Bagan SG

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