Mumbai Ultras keep playoff hope alive with 1-0 win against Ratnam FC

by Chittu Shetty February 7, 2024

An early strike by Raj Ali proved to be the game-changer as Mumbai Ultras secured a crucial 1-0 victory against Ratnam FC, keeping their playoff hopes alive in the Mumbai Super League.

In a must-win encounter, Mumbai Ultras took an early lead when Raj Ali received a precise pass inside the box. Expertly maneuvering through a scattered Ratnam defense, he unleashed a powerful shot that found the back of the net. The defenders of Ratnam struggled to regroup in time, putting Mumbai Ultras in the driver’s seat.

As the match progressed, Mumbai Ultras earned a free-kick, and Prathamesh Rokade stepped up to take the shot. Despite his well-placed effort on target, Ratnam’s vigilant defense thwarted the attempt, preventing Mumbai Ultras from extending their lead.

A dramatic moment unfolded just before the conclusion of the first half. Mumbai Ultras’ goalkeeper, Dylan D’lima, ventured forward in an attempt to collect the ball, providing Ratnam’s No. 8 with an opportunity. However, a goal-line clearance from a Mumbai Ultras defender ensured that the lead remained intact.

With a 1-0 lead at halftime, Mumbai Ultras entered the second half with determination, attempting to break through the Ratnam defense and secure their position. Shahid Raju received a well-directed pass from the right wing, forwarding it precisely to Shreyas Zele, whose header although on target was blocked by an alert Ratnam’s solid defense.

Another opportunity arose for Mumbai Ultras as Joyson Chettiar received a pass inside the box, directing the ball towards Shahid Raju. However, Ratnam’s defenders managed a crucial interception, kicking the ball out and thwarting the attempt to score. At the other end, Ratnam had an opportunity to equalize on a counter but couldn’t keep their shot on target from a promising position much to the relief of Ultras fanbase.

In a game of tight defenses, Ratnam held Mumbai Ultras at bay, but the early lead proved decisive. The match concluded with Mumbai Ultras emerging victorious with a 1-0 scoreline.

With this win, Mumbai Ultras climbed to second place in Group A of the Mumbai Super League. Their qualification for the playoffs hinges on the Om Saidham versus Young Guns (Rhema) fixture. If Young Guns (Rhema) can secure any points from the game, it will ensure Mumbai Ultras’ qualification to the next round.

– As reported by Anas Murajwar

Click here – For fixture, results and schedule of Mumbai Super League

Also Read: Mumbai beat Pune 3-1 to reach WIFA Inter-District final after 5 years

Also Read: Mumbai Squad ready to conquer in WIFA Inter-District Championship

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