Atlético de Kolkata emerge champs

Kozhikode: Supersub Mohammed Rafique’s stunning injury time goal crowned Atlético de Kolkata as the first champions of the Indian Super League while Kerala Blasters had to be content with the runners-up position in an action-packed final held in Mumbai on Saturday.

In sharp contrast to their second semifinal match against Chennai, Kerala Blasters dominated most of the second half and even came close to scoring several times. But it was Kolkata that prevailed and the credit should go to Rafique, whose superb header beat Kerala Blasters custodian James and rested in the left bottom corner.

Kerala Blasters players can only rue the umpteen chances they missed and Kolkata goalie Apoula Edel was in his best form, denying a sure goal shot by Michael Chopra in the 83rd minute of the play.

After a goalless second half, Kerala Blasters went for an all-out attack against the Kolkata team and created wonderful chances with good team work but was not able to find the target. Though lost, the team can revel on the performance so far and for making Kerala fans dream big.