Guwahati, Oct 18 (PTI): North East United FC rode on a brace from Alaaeddine Ajaraie to beat Kerala Blasters FC 4-1 in an Indian Super League match at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Sunday.
Ajaraie scored in the 15th and 70th minutes for the Highlanders. Antonio Moyano (45+4) and debutant Aman CK (82nd) were also on the scoresheet for the home side.
North East United broke the deadlock in the 15th minute, as Eneko Satrustegui’s needled pass found Ajaraie through on goal. The Moroccan made no mistake, rounding Arsh Anwer in the Kerala goal before slotting home without fuss.
The Highlanders continued to threaten, with Arsh denying Jithin a second goal in as many games by pushing his header off target to keep his side in the contest.
The Blasters looked to respond through striker Andre Green, whose effort in the 38th minute was blocked by Satrustegui. Only moments later, defender Amey Ranawade’s attempt to convert Adrian Luna’s cross went in vain as his effort failed to test Gurmeet Singh in the NorthEast United goal.
The hosts capitalised on their attacking momentum deep into first-half stoppage time, as Antonio Moyano doubled the advantage.
Ajaraie, whose initial shot was blocked by Hormipam Ruivah, recovered possession and slipped the Spaniard into space before the midfielder’s effort found the back of the net.
Kerala Blasters made two changes at the break, bringing on Korou and Sandeep Singh for Ranawade and Hormipam. But it was the hosts who continued to push forward, prompting Arsh to make crucial saves to deny Moyano and Jithin.
The Blasters reduced the deficit against the run of play and at the hour mark, when Yansane converted a flick from Luna with a low drive past Gurmeet to make it 2-1.
NorthEast United restored their two-goal cushion soon after, when Ajaraie scored his second goal, capitalising on a poor clearance from Korou. The striker’s curling effort from the edge of the box was met by Arsh, but it wasn’t enough to keep it off target.
Ajaraie was subsequently substituted alongside Jithin, with Nikola and Aman CK coming in for the Highlanders. Kerala Blasters also made changes, bringing in Mohammed Sanan to replace Vibin Mohanan.
North East United put the result beyond doubt when Aman scored their fourth and final goal, converting a pass from Macarton to make it 4-1.
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