ISL 2021-22: Odisha keeps playoff hopes alive with SC East Bengal win

Faheem Hussain/Focus Sports/ ISL

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Odisha FC saw off SC East Bengal in a tight match to register a 2-1 win at the Tilak Maidan on Monday. The result keeps the outfit in the hunt for the top-four places by elevating them to sixth place.

Jonathas (23') gave Odisha an early lead that lasted until Antonio Perosevic (64') scored the equaliser in the second half. Javier Hernandez (75') regained the lead for OFC.

In the early stages of the match, OFC piled a lot of pressure and was finally rewarded with an early goal from Jonathas. The cross for the goal was provided by Javier Hernandez who made room on the right flank and served the ball on a platter for the striker who tapped in from close range.

Looking for the equaliser, Hira Mondal took an attempt just before halftime but his left-footed strike flew off target. The first half ended with Odisha retaining their one-goal advantage. The restart saw more sluggish gameplay as neither side was able to find inspiration in the final third.

The best chance to score the equaliser fell to Antonio Perosevic two minutes before the hour mark. A long ball from deep saw the forward find room behind the defensive line but his volley had too much elevation. However, the Croatian made no mistake from a similar opportunity a few minutes later and scored the equaliser with a low finish into the bottom right corner.

OFC regained the lead ten minutes later through Javier Hernandez. The midfielder received a lay-off from Jonathas who turned from scorer to provider. The right-footed shot from the Spaniard took a slight deflection before swerving into the back of the net.

Javi looked to have scored another a few minutes later but Mondal managed to make a sensational goal-line clearance to deny him the goal.

Odisha FC faces the reigning champions Mumbai City FC in their next at the Fatorda on Sunday whereas SC East Bengal plays an in-form Kerala Blasters FC at the Tilak Maidan on Monday.