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Pondy gives Karnataka a rough ride

By Our Special Correspondent

TIRUCHI APRIL 11. Karnataka went through turmoil before beating Pondicherry — thanks to Kuttymani's 80th minute goal — and grabbed full points in the South zone phase of the under-21 National Football Championship at the St. Joseph's Higher Secondary School here on Friday.

Considering Pondicherry's low stature and Karnataka's reputation as a strong contender, the struggle was unbelievable. Giving precedence to brawn, Pondicherry ensured that the contest was rough and tough while throwing its rival into a disorganised lot.

Like against Tamil Nadu earlier, Pondicherry players surprised Karnataka by their speed, particularly frontliners K. Gobi and Arokiaraj. If the duo had translated a part of that energy into meaningful acts, the encouraging gathering would have had something to cheer for the underdog.

Nonetheless the challenge unsettled Karnataka, which too for a while took a leaf from its opponent's game and played tough. What must have prompted this was also the15th minute episode in its own goal area when at least five Pondicherry players hovered around like a pack of wolves with the ball. As luck would have it, Pondicherry could not make the kill but for Karnataka it was a warning.

Adding to Karnataka's agony was its diminutive goalkeeper Nagendra's inclination to punch the ball and not collect it. In fact, little after half hour Nagendra nearly committed a suicidal act by failing to clear the ball beyond the box. Pondy striker Gobi should have seized the golden chance, but wasted it trying a fancy placing.

A barren first session was followed by a more purposeful show by the Karnataka boys. The urgency was unmistakable. The use of the flanks helped make inroads into Pondy danger area. Nandakumar showed good dribbling while Kuttymani played the double role of marshalling the midfield and joining upfront with assurance. With Shamu and Sreenivasan adding teeth to the attack, Karnataka looked well set. Hereabouts Pondicherry defender F. Vinoth collected his second yellow card to receive marching orders. With ten men and 30 minutes remaining Pondicherry made a game fight. As minutes ticked away, there was a touch of panic in Karnataka ranks.

The relief finally came through Kuttymani's header off Daniel's flag kick. Poor Irissappan not only failed to stop the ball but also left the field with a minor head injury, apparently striking the post while diving.

Saturday's match: Tamil Nadu v AP.

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