ISL 2016 | ATK settles for goalless draw with Pune

If there was any positive for Pune in the final league clash it was that they managed to keep a clean slate for the first time after conceding goals for eight straight matches. Much of that was because of some brave goalkeeping from Arindam Bhattacharya, who was preferred ahead of star goalkeeper Edel Bete. FC Pune City also escaped unharmed at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium because Atletico de Kolkata lacked sharpness in attack. Spanish striker Juan Belencoso was guilty of missing at least four good chances as Atletico dominated despite coach Jose Molina making a host of changes to his team in an attempt to keep players fresh for semi-final battles.

It was Javi Lara who first tested Arindam with a long ranger which he managed to fist away and thereafter started the saga of missed Belencoso chances. The first came in the opening half when he sent his header wide from close range with only Arindam to beat. Pune City took 25 minutes for their first shot on goal and it came from marquee player Mohamed Sissoko who tried his luck from just outside the box with a fierce grounder but goalkeeper Dani Mallo was well positioned.