AFC Cup: Chennaiyin FC 2-0 Manang Marshyangdi Club - 5 Talking Points

#2 No goals for Rafi, but puts in an amazing match

Mohammed Rafi was handed his first ever start of the season

Mohammed Rafi was dusted off the shelf and given his first ever start in any competition this season by Gregory with CK Vineeth relegated to the bench.

All six of Rafi's previous appearances this season were as a substitute. In none of those appearances had he seen more than three minutes of action.

So it was quite the surprise to see Gregory go for the veteran striker up front from the opening whistle.

Popularly known as 'the Headmaster' for his heading proficiency, Rafi's feet however made the telling impact in Wednesday's game.

Linking up very well with Jeje Lalpekhlua he helped drag the defence out and open up space for Chennaiyin to work in.

He both stayed up to tackle the aerial balls as well as dropped deep to receive the ball and initiate play through the game in the 64 minutes that he played.

He even had a very good chance in the 23rd minute when a side footed effort was turned away by the Manang keeper. He did provide the assist for Herd's opener.

Gregory was looking for something different in the forward area and he got it tonight from Rafi.