Dynamos script late drama to hold Blasters 3-3 in ISL

Sehnaj Singh’s superb long range shot ensured a dramatic climax to help hosts Delhi Dynamos force a eventful 3-3 draw against Kerala Blasters in an Indian Super League (ISL) contest here on Thursday.

Blasters were ahead 3-2 till regulation time and fourth victory in 14 group matches seemed set to clinch what would have been only their fourth victory in 14 group matches of a terrible campaign. But Sehnaj’s neatly taken fierce effort ruined what would have been a consolation win for the Blasters.

Dynamos improved to 22 points from 13 matches, level with second-placed FC Goa, but stayed at the third spot due to an inferior goal difference. Blasters’ doomed campaign ended with only 13 points from 14 matches.

Dynamos were through to the semi-finals before this match and Blasters were already out of reckoning for the play-offs.

With the fate of the two teams already decided, the inconsequence of the tie led to both teams adopting an unstinted offensive approach that led to their defences being exposed.

The first half witnessed five goals with Blasters leading 3-2 at half-time. But it was Dynamos went ahead in an eventful first half in the seventh minute.

Frenchman Florent Malouda continued his consistent form with a delicate chip over the static Blasters defence for an opportunistic Gustavo Dos Santos. The Brazilian winger crept in behind the backline and flung his left-foot at the looping ball on its way down.

That started a series of goal-mouth action. Blasters levelled two minutes later but received a huge helping hand in their efforts when defender Anas Edathodika misjudged the bounce of the ball to duck under it while trying to effect a diving headed clearance. But he was only successful in allowing the ball to move unchallenged to a surprised Chris Dagnall. The unmarked English forward gladly scored.