With their eyes fixated on all three points and to stronger their claim for a top four spot, ATK and Jamshedpur FC took the field in what was a crucial game in the Indian Super League. It was almost a do or die game for ATK to keep their playoff aspirations alive but playing at home and with an attacking mindset, the Bangla Brigade won 2 - 1 on the night. Manuel Lanzarote scored a brace for the hosts whereas Mario Arques scored the consolation goal for Jamshedpur FC.
Cesar Ferrando named a pretty changed side from the previous game against FC Goa. With injuries piling up, Pratik Chaudhari partnered Tiri in defence while Farukh Choudhary and Sumeet Passi started up front. For ATK, Manuel Lanzarote returned from his suspension and proved to be the difference between the two sides.
In the third minute, Jamshedpur FC conceded a free-kick right at the edge of the box after a darting run from Edu Garcia. Lanzarote stepped up to take the set-piece and scored at the near post. A reaction was now needed from the away side to peg ATK back.
Edu Garcia again won a free-kick in the 33rd minute. Lanzarote, the dead ball specialist scored his second of the night through a similar fashion. This time though, the Spaniard hit it perfectly at the far post, giving Paul absolutely no chance to save it. Jamshedpur FC went into the break with a two-goal disadvantage and a mountain to climb in the second interval.
After the break, ATK allowed Jamshedpur FC to dominate possession as the home side defended deep, guarding their lead just like any other Steve Coppell side. The visitors were not threatening the ATK goal until the 74th minute when Jerry Mawia was introduced onto the field. The youngster went close to scoring soon but his shot from close range hit the upright and went out.
Jashedpur FC upped the ante and reduced the deficit in the 82nd minute when a Bikash Jairu cross was met by Mario Arques who scored with a thumping header. The away side knocked on ATK's goal number of times after Arques' intervention but failed to find that elusive equalizer.
This was Jamshedpur FC's second loss of the season but will take heart with the fact that the players showed tremendous desire and character in the final quarter of the game. Action now shifts to the Furnace for Jamshedpur FC when they play Mumbai City FC on February 8.
