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#2 Bartholomew Ogbeche makes a big impression
Bartholomew Ogbeche was the star player for the NorthEast United last season, and it seems the same form could just be replicated for the Kerala Blasters this season. One of the most talked-about transfers this year, Ogbeche was roped in by the Blasters to consolidate their attack and he surely didn’t disappoint in the first match of the season.
The new Captain for the yellow outfit was straight into the action in the 30th minute of the game when the Blasters received a penalty, courtesy a silly challenge by Pranoy Halder inside the box. Ogbeche made no mistake to send the ball past the goalkeeper, bringing about the much-needed equaliser. Minutes later, just before halftime, Ogbeche was again at the right place to score a decisive goal.
Prasanth Karuthadathkuni drilled a cross into the box and just as Pranoy Halder looked to clear the ball away, the latter made a complete mess in his attempt as the ball landed only inches away from Ogbeche's right foot as the striker made most use of the chance and struck the ball past the ATK custodian and into the right corner to bring about a 2-1 lead for the Blasters.
In the end, the two goals sufficed to salvage three crucial points for the Blasters against a tough ATK side. The 35-yr old Nigerian will certainly play a crucial role in the Blasters' persuit for a top 4 finish this season.
