ISL 2015: Three reasons why the Goa- Pune match will end in a draw
In this top of the table clash, third placed FC Pune City travel to face FC Goa at the Fatorda Stadium. Pune can displace Goa from the top with a win, which will also make the title race far more intriguing. But the home side are coming into this game on the back of an impressive performance against Chennaiyin FC, away from home.
Prediction
FC Pune City 1-1 FC Goa
1. Moura proposes, Goa's strike-force disposes
FC Goa are at the top of the points table and that has papered over a lot of underlying cracks in their armor.
Leo Moura has been one of the most productive attacking midfielders in the league, but has not found someone to finish the chances he creates. Incredibly, none of Goa’s goals have come from open play in their last four outings- both goals from corners in the lucky 2-1 win over Kerala, none against Mumbai, an own goal from Roger Johnson against Pune, and both the goals from penalties against Chennaiyin in the last match.
Goa will struggle to outscore Pune, even though they are facing a shaky defence in this game.
2. After the initial 'good', Pune slowly revealing the 'bad' and 'ugly'
Pune were quick off the blocks this time in the ISL and climbed to the top of the table. But the Stallions have experienced a dip in form recently, having won just one of their last four matches.
The defence that conceded just three goals in their opening four matches, has shipped in seven in their last four. They were dominated by Goa in their last meeting and were lucky to lose by just a two-goal margin in their last game against Kerala.
Didier Zokora's impact in the midfield has begun to wane off and the Pune captain has resorted to conceding cheap free kicks, which can prove to be costly against Goa, who are very good from dead ball situations.
Pune are too reliant on Nicky Shorey to deliver from the wings, but with Goa looking to pin him back with their wing forwards, Mandar Rao Dessai and Romeo Fernandes, the home team might struggle to create too many opportunities in this game.
3. Pune back to their Balewadi fortress
The Stallions, however, have an impressive record at home with a four-on-five win ratio at Balewadi. Goa on the other hand are coming into this game on the back of an impressive away performance against Chennaiyin FC and this should turn out to be an even contest.
Comments
Leave a comment0 Comments