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Jamshedpur FC returned for another action-packed matchday at the GMC Stadium Bambolim to face Odisha FC. The squad looked determined to bag the victory and grab the three points as the team was eager to produce their first win of 2021. Odisha FC on the other hand, aimed to score their second win of the season and climb higher up the table. What unfolded in the next 90 minutes was nothing but pure entertainment.
Jamshedpur FC took the game underway with high spirits and turned to attack right from the kick-off whistle as they were hungry to get the early lead on Odisha FC like they did in the first clash. Jamshedpur FC with their aggressive attacks, came through with some close calls as they got a few attempts on target thanks to Len Doungel’s powerful outer foot shot at goal and Valskis’s close shot. Unfortunately, all chances were denied by the man between the sticks for Odisha FC. The first 20′ saw chances for both teams; Odisha FC created a couple of chances as well to take the lead with one of them almost ending in the back of the net after a blunder in the Jamshedpur FC box, but Rehenesh blocked away every attempt made by the opposition.
After both teams refreshed after their cooling break, the Men of Steel continued dominating the first half with attacks from both flanks. The full-backs (Narender and Ricky) also actively took part in the attacks in the attacking third from both flanks as they aimed to take the lead before the half-time whistle. As the game entered its final five minutes of the first half, Jamshedpur FC took the lead that they were working hard for, with a perfect cross into the box by Mobashir towards Valskis, who ran towards the goal. The ball landed right at Valskis’ foot but he couldn’t get his touch on the ball which misled the Odisha FC keeper as the ball bounced in the back of the net thus taking Jamshedpur FC to the lead just moments before the half time. After some discussion about the goalscorer, Mobashir was named as the scorer for Jamshedpur FC right before the half-time whistle and that’s how the first half came to an end with Jamshedpur FC taking full control of the game.
The second half commenced with the Men of Steel stepping into the pitch with more optimism and energy. The hosts, Odisha FC, looked to seize the few opportunities they created in the attacking third but the Jamshedpur FC backline were tight at the back as Peter Hartley returned in the starting XI to guard the defence. Just like the first half, Jamshedpur dominated the second half as well with higher ball possession and crosses inside the box, while Odisha FC pushed harder to get back in the game. Jamshedpur showcased an aggressive approach with their rapid counter-attacks and intense pressure whenever Odisha lost possession of the ball, keeping the Juggernauts on their toes. But, despite the constant pressure by the Men of Steel, Odisha FC’s super striker, Diego Mauricio, did not back down as he invaded the Jamshedpur box multiple times looking to bring the hosts back into the game. Despite all his attempts, they went in vain as Rehenesh and Eze denied the Juggernauts every attempt at goal.
The attacking line-up looked stronger than ever as Jamshedpur FC threatened Odisha FC with numerous shots and attempts on target but Arshdeep Singh, Odisha FC goalkeeper, kept the hosts alive in the clash. Jamshedpur FC could have had a higher margin but the two attempts taken by Farukh, flew right over the crossbar. As the clash entered its final 15 minutes, Odisha FC took the lead in ball possession as they seemed determined to get back into the game. Odisha FC were almost awarded with a chance to equalise, as a tackle from Rehenesh on Diego inside the box, was appealed for a penalty by the players, but the referee was firm in his decision that Rehenesh’s challenge was on the ball. Diego was disappointed with the final decision.
The referee added five minutes of injury time and Jamshedpur FC almost scored another goal to seal the deal with a strong right footed attempt at goal by Farukh. Unfortunately, the attempt deflected away after hitting the right post thus leaving Jamshedpur with a one goal lead.
Finally, after a powerful gameplay, Jamshedpur FC registered their first victory of 2021 which the team dearly needed to stay in the race for the top 4. An exciting matchday at GMC Stadium in Bambolim came ended on a winning note for the Men of Steel as they not only bagged the crucial three points, but also moved up the table to #6 thus keeping their play-offs’ qualification race alive.
