ISL: Manvir racks up double as ATKMB strengthen grip over top-four
Manvir Singh struck twice as ATK Mohun Bagan notched up a clinical 2-0 win over FC Goa to put themselves in a commanding position in the semifinal race of the Indian Super League.
Manvir Singh (3rd, 46th) scored on either side of half-time to ensure the Mariners stretched their unbeaten run to 11 games under Juan Ferrando, who did a double over his former side after switching allegiances mid-season.
FC Goa’s slim chances of making the semis all but went up in smoke as they remained on 18 points from 17 outings.
The Mariners were at it from the word go, taking the lead as early as the third minute. Prabir Das’ cross was cleared for a corner Dylan Fox. Lon Colaco whipped in a delightful flag kick for Manvir to flick the ball home with his back behind the goal.
THAT’S IT!
The referee blows the final whle and we’re now level on points with Hyderabad FC at the top with a game in hand. A great team performance once again. 💚♥️#ATKMohunBagan #JoyMohunBagan #AmraSobujMaroon #HeroISL #FCGATKMB pic.twitter.com/q7IAA6srq1
— ATK Mohun Bagan FC (@atkmohunbaganfc) February 15, 2022
Dheeraj Moirangthem had little time to react as the Gaurs were stung early.
Goa upped the ante as the half went on and started asking a lot of questions of the ATKMB backline which had Sandesh Jhingan for the first time from the start.
Jorge Ortiz had a huge opportunity to kick-start Goa’s onslaught as he tried to find his teammate selflessly from a good angle only for Tiri to stick out a left boot and clear away the danger.
Lon was once again brilliant, making those dazzling runs and linking up well with Joni Kauko and Manvir. Anwar Ali found the crossbar soon after the cooling break when his rasping effort from long range came off the woodwork.
.@manvir_singh07’s flicked header gives @atkmohunbaganfc an early lead! ⚽🤯
Watch the #FCGATKMB game live on @DisneyPlusHS – https://t.co/CCLPSJCDnj and @OfficialJioTV
Live Updates: https://t.co/5fgnKXnOUl#HeroISL #LetsFootball pic.twitter.com/7BOGwP76OO
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 15, 2022
After the break, ATKMB doubled their advantage to pour cold water on Goa’s hard work and build-up play. One minute into the second half, Manvir scored his and the team’s second of the night as he pounced on a Lenny Rodrigues ball after Rodrigues latched on to a loose ball from Princeton Rebello.
Manvir controlled the ball, dribbled past Dheeraj and guided the ball inside the goal.
Manvir almost got his hattrick four minutes later, getting on the end of a Lon ball but could not beat Dheeraj who did well to get his body on the line. ATKMB could have had more goals as Kauko and Manvir also spurned gilt-edged chances.
Colaco hit the underside of the crossbar after he whipped in a cross from the left flank. Dheeraj finally scrambled to clear the danger. ATKMB held fort till the end to ensure all three points and maintain their upturn in form.
