The 76th match of the Hero Indian Super League saw an unexpected result, in which the Highlanders toppled the points table leaders Mumbai FC. The final scoreline was 2-1 in what was a scintillating game of football. After coming back as the interim
Two goals in the first nine minutes of play proved too much for the Islanders to overcome, especially with a defence as solid as the NorthEast United FC possessed. Mumbai FC though fought back hard and made numerous attempts at goal during the second half, but the damage was done already.
Adam Le Fondre managed to score one for the Islanders in the 85th minute, but it was too late for an equaliser after that. It was indeed a surprise loss for the Islanders as they looked like the most formidable side this season, but it was the Highlanders who came victorious tonight at the GMC Stadium Bambolim.
The match started explosively for the Highlanders as they scored their first goal just 6 minutes into the match. Churned out from a team effort, it was Deshorn Brown who netted in their first goal. Luis Machado‘s shot from just outside the penalty area resulted in a dangerous buildup and Nim Dorjee eventually claimed possession and crossed for Deshorn Brown. He managed to take control of the ball while being onside and scored easily.
Even before the nerves got settled, the Highlanders simply doubled the lead. And it was Deshorn Brown again with the goal for his team. Two goals within 9 minutes against the league toppers were absolutely incredible and the players went crazy in celebration.
Federico Gallego‘s corner was dealt poorly by the Mumbai FC defence and a weak clearance led to them losing possession inside the box. Luis Machado claimed the ball and passed it to a waiting Deshorn Brown and he didn’t disappoint. The Islanders continued making lapses in their defence after that and NorthEast United FC kept attacking and creating genuine chances.
The second half saw a more competitive football match with the Islanders being able to create a few chances, but it was not until the 85th minute that they finally were able to pull one back. Adam Le Fondre, who came in as a substitute in the 66th minute, had brought back some hope for his side. Bartholomew Ogbeche‘s assist inside the opponent’s penalty box fell at the perfect position for Le Fondre, who finished it with ease.
The goal by Adam Le Fondre led to some excitement during the last few minutes of play and even though they gave their best, the equaliser was not to come. Thus ended Mumbai FC’s lossless streak from a brilliant display from the Highlanders.
Hero of the Match: Deshorn Brown
The award for the DHL Winning Pass of the Match was awarded to Nim Dorjee for his brilliant assist in the first goal and the award for the Hero of the Match was awarded to none other than Deshorn Brown for his spectacular brace where he netted two goals in under 3 minutes.
NorthEast United FC leapfrogs Hyderabad FC to the 4th position with 21 points from 14 matches now. They are going to face FC Goa on 4th February where they will want to continue the winning run. Mumbai FC is still in a secured position at the top of the table, with 30 points from 14 matches. They are going to face Kerala Blasters Fc on 3rd February in the next match.
