KERALA FACE JFC IN BATTLE OF EQUALS

Jamshedpur: Two unbeaten sides will square off against each other when Jamshedpur FC host Kerala Blasters at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in the Hero Indian Super League here on Monday. The teams are yet to lose a game this season but have just a win to show for their efforts. While the home team have played out three successive draws after their win over Mumbai City in the opener, the visitors have been involved in two draws after winning their opener against ATK. Jamshedpur FC, with a possessionbased style of play, have dominated games but their failure to convert chances and a lack of accuracy in shooting has contributed to their plight. The fact that star striker Tim Cahill is yet to attain complete match fitness could be an issue for coach Cesar Ferrando. The Australian will play a part at some point against Kerala and the Men of Steel will look to him to provide some inspiration up front. Defensively, they have looked good with Tiri marshalling the backline commendably. Mario Arques and Memo will be looking to dominate Kerala in midfield and set the tempo for Ferrando’s side. Youngster Mobashir Rahman is still injured for Jamshedpur and Ferrando will have to make do without him. Blasters have played only three games so far but have not impressed since their 2- 0 win over ATK in the season opener. Like their Monday’s opponents, Kerala paid for their profligacy in the subsequent matches and conceded late equalisers. While he will want the strikers to score more, maintaining the team’s concentration levels throughout the 90 minutes will be high on coach David James’ mind. The good news for James is that Anas Edathodika is back in contention for a start after serving his three game suspension.