ISL | Inter Kashi stems the rot with win over Chennaiyin

A wounded animal is often considered the most dangerous. Inter Kashi FC proved the adage true in the Indian Super League here on Tuesday, stemming the rot with a 2-1 triumph over Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Bruised after three consecutive defeats in its debut ISL campaign, Kashi made the trip to Chennai with the sole objective of ending its barren run.

It did so under lights, thanks to ‘leader of the pack’ Alfred Planas (46th and 54th minute), whose brace pushed the Antonio Lopez Habas-coached side — eight points from seven matches — to eighth on the table.

While Chennaiyin pulled one back through substitute Daniel Chima Chukwu (90+5) minutes before the final whistle, it was not enough to prevent a third loss. CFC is now languishing in 11th spot with five points off six games.

The hero of the night without an iota of doubt was Planas. Habas’ half-time team talk appeared to have worked a treat as the Spanish forward provided the visitor a dream start in the second period. Barely moments after the kick-off, the 30-year-old pounced on a poor Mohammed Ali Bemammer clearance to find the right corner of the net.

Planas, a fox in the box, then made left-back D. Vignesh’s pay for his grave mistake, evading two of his markers before poking the ball home to extend the advantage. The double strike proved enough for Kashi to get back on track.

The result: Chennaiyin FC 1 (Daniel Chima Chukwu 90+5) lost to Inter Kashi FC 2 (Alfred Planas 46, 54).