Kochi: Chennaiyin FC finished on a goalless draw against Kerala Blasters to inch closer to a play off play-off spot in the Indian Super League (ISL) being played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here.
Blasters are in fifth place, just one point behind Jamshedpur FC, who have a game in hand, while Chennaiyin FC are placed third after accumulating 29 points from 17 matches, the same as second-placed FC Pune City, who have a better goal difference.
The Blasters could have won the game when they got a penalty just seven minutes into the second half.
Gudjon Baldvinsson had stormed into Chennaiyin’s box and took a tumble when Jerry Lalrinzuala made contact from behind. Courage Pekuson took responsibility and went low to Karanjit’s right – but the keeper had guessed early and made a fine save.
The 78th minute saw both teams create chances within seconds.
Jackichand Singh slipped in Baldvinsson and his first-time shot was brilliantly saved by Karanjit. There was a rebound but CK Vineeth simply couldn’t sort his feet out to pounce on the chance.
Play shifted immediately to the other end where Jaime Gavilan’s low shot took a wicked deflection but goalkeeper Paul Rachubka still saved it on his left.
Five minutes later, Baldvinsson was set up inside the box by Wes Brown’s cushioned header and his volley was headed for the top corner, only for Karanjit’s fingertips which got in the way yet again. The goalkeeper was an easy choice for Hero of the Match.
ANI