Mumbai, Kerala in must-win game

Mumbai City FC looked the better team on paper and expectations were high this season with marquee player Nicolas Anelka taking the additional managerial role. But after 11 games Mumbai have just 12 points and have faltered lately to mar their qualification chances.

The start was poor but they picked up in the middle. Things though have fallen apart since Anelka decided to play. This was after a dominant 5-1 win over North East United when the hosts were close to the top spot. Now they are down to seventh were they ended last season.

Sony Norde and Sunil Chhetri seemed to play freely with support from Frederic Piquione and Subash Singh and goals came also with Chhetri scoring six in three games. But Anelka’s playing has meant that Chhetri’s and Norde’s goals have dried up.

The hosts now face bottom placed Kerala Blasters on Thursday at DY Patil Stadium in a must win game for both sides. Last year finalists are also struggling and have just 11 points from as many games.

“If you look at the situation — when I’ve played and not played, we’ve been better when I’ve not played — so I may put myself on the bench. I will be trying to concentrate on coaching,” the former Chelsea star said.

FC Goa hold North East United In Margao, FC Goa came from behind to hold North East United to a 1-1 draw in on Wednesday.While North East got the lead through substitute Victor Mendy in the 56th minute, the home team drew level in the 80th minute courtesy Reinaldo da Cruz Oliveira.