FC Goa end their winless run with a 3-1 win over Odisha at the Fatorda Stadium and completed their league double over them.
The Gaurs had their intentions clear from the first whistle itself. Four minutes into the first half Alberto Noguera brought Arshdeep into action and the Odisha’s Gaurdian at the post did well to deny him an early opener.
But, FC Goa did break the deadlock and yet again Odisha failed to keep a clean sheet as Ivan Gonzalez sent in a great ball into the penalty box that found Alberto Noguera and this Arshdeep had no answer to the Spaniard’s header on target and ball went past him.
Odisha came forward hoping for an immediate response but things completely took a different turn in what resulted to FC Goa’s second goal. A quick counter attack was well finished by Jorge Ortiz Mendoza as his chipped the ball over Arshdeep.
Odisha were desperate to make a comeback and Daniel Lalhimpuia did test the keeper to register Odisha first shot on target in the 28th minute. However, it did not take too long for the Juggernauts to open their scoring as a pin point cross from Rakesh Pradhan was sent past Dheeraj by Diego Maurício who became the first Odisha FC player to hit double digits.
The goal changed Odisha’s approach towards the game. Cole Alexander played a good ball towards Daniel Lalhimpuia and Daniel did everything right but yet again Dheeraj came at rescue for the Gaurs with an important save.
Odisha maintained the same tempo in the second half. Brad Inman’s volley from outside the box went over the crossbar. Diego Maurício’s shot fell short by inches a minute later.
Jorge Ortiz Mendoza’s corner found an unmarked Ivan Gonzalez who’s first shot on target was saved by Arshdeep but he did score from the rebound and Odisha were down to 3-1.
Ivan Gonzalez was seen playing in an more advanced position after scoring the third goal for FC Goa as he came close to score a brace in the 82nd minute but his header found the crossbar.
Hero of the Match: Ivan Gonzalez
The Spaniard produced a Hero of the match performance as he made his presence felt on both ends of the pitch. Defensively, a made two blocks and a clearance. On the other end, he provided an assist and also scored the third goal for FC Goa.