Kochin edge past Mahindras

January 08, 1998 

Indian Express 
 
KOCHI: FC kochin escaped with a win and three points in their 2nd Philips National Football League match against a rampaging Mahindra and Mahindra (Mumbai) today.
Playing the first 45 minutes under scorching sun at the Jawharlal Nehru Stdaium, FC Kochin could have been at the receiving end if it were not for their Ghanaian goalkeeper Ali Abubakar and the 12 chances that went abegging for their rivals. Many of those chances were safe in Ali's hands or the defenders who came up with an excellent performance.
Kochin technical director George Blues was forced to pull back Joe Paul Ancheri into the defence after he scored the winner in the 28th minute. Ancheri later swapped position with KA Anson.
The only goal was the spade work of their medio Mohammed Salissu who lobbed the ball to his skipper IM Vijayan on the right. Ancheri ran in to head the ball into the net after Vijayan centered the ball into rival penalty area. Mahindra goalie Gumpe Rime could do nothing. Salissu had a chance late in the first half. 
FC Kochin skipper IM Vijayan must be a disappointed man today. None of his attempts could help his team consolidate the lead. Vijayan even earned boos from the crowd for the display.
The 10,000-odd crowd began to applaud the Mumbai team, particularly in the second half when the visitors swamped the rival goal area. Sanjay Dayal even made a goalline save when a Raman Vijayan header floored Mumbai keeper Rime.
FC Kochin's have nine points after their third win in four matches. They will meet JCT in the next match here on Sunday. For the visitors this is their second defeat from four matches and have only four points. They will take on East Bengal in Mumbai.

 

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