ISL 3: Forlan seals it for Mumbai City

Action from the ISL-3 match between Mumbai City FC and NorthEast United at the Mumbai Football Arena on Friday. The hosts won 1-0. (Photo: Rajesh Jadhav)

Diego Forlan opened his account in the Indian Super League as Mumbai City FC notched up a second successive win to record their best start to the tournament.

The Uruguayan striker was on target from the spot in the second half as hosts scored a 1-0 win over NorthEast United at the Mumbai Football Arena here on Friday.

Playing their first game at home and their maiden outing at the venue, Mumbai City marquee player Forlan had the crowd roaring his name with his first shot on goal but it didn’t trouble goalkeeper Subrata Paul much.

NorthEast, who came into the match with two impressive wins, showed no signs of fatigue as they settled down quickly. Midfielder Koffi Ndri (Romaric) was just off target on a curling shot after Katsumi Yusa tried a variation on a free-kick. Ivory Coast’s Romaric was at the thick of action again but goalkeeper Roberto Volpato used his height and reflexes to bring out a diving save in the 15th minute.

On the counter, Alborlang Khongjee’s long range attempt brought a good save from Paul.

The heavily marked Forlan made some smart runs into the penalty area but the visitors’ defense led by skipper Didier Zokora was up to the task to deny him a shy at goal.

Mumbai City applied pressure and it worked as the NorthEast half-line made a rare mistake that cost them in the 55th minute. Reagan Singh lost control of the ball at the corner of the D and in desperation to deny Pronoy Halder, he brought Halder down, prompting Ramirez to point at the spot.

Forlan took the kick and Paul went the right way but it was too powerful for him to keep out.

Almaro had a chance to equalise but Volpato had it covered and Yusa again squandered an easy opportunity in the 77th minute to hit straight to Volpato. Almaro made a swift run from the left towards the end but he couldn’t finish it again. Volpato had second successive quality game between the bars and is yet to concede a goal.

FC Goa, Pune City hunt for first points Coming into the match after their loss against NE United, FC Goa are now geared up to win their first home match against FC Pune City in Margao on Saturday.

Both the teams are looking to bounce back after losing their opening ties. Pune City lost 0-1 to Mumbai City while FC Goa lost to NorthEast United 0-2 and want to prove themselves with a win in front of their passionate home support.