#3 Chennai’s organised defence
Chennai were phenomenal in defence right from the get-go. With experienced campaigners like Iche and Ravanan, they were expected to put up a fight. Right from the game’s outset, Chennai exuded sheer tenacity and grit. They never let their guard down until Ravanan was compelled to leave the field after sustaining a cramp.
Yumnam Raju was also sensational for the hosts. Despite being booked early in the game, he kept his spirits high. Quite a few tactical challenges coupled with blocks against a careening Katsumi kept his side in the game.
Haroon Amiri came up with a few stunning blocks on either side of half-time as well. Iche made the fullest use of his height, thwarting any aerial balls that came his way. However, his tardiness could have cost him dearly if not for Ravanan’s brilliance.
Till Bagan’s first goal, the rearguard of Chennai seemed pretty airtight. However, after conceding the goal they started to wilt under pressure. With their skipper already taken off the field in the first-half, they lacked the presence of a proper vanguard who could take up the reins in the defence.
