Indian Super League giant, ATK Mohun Bagan came up with a memorable performance to pip Kerala Blasters FC on Sunday. The win has allowed ATKMB to maintain its second spot in the table.
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The match was a tough one, with the Blasters leading by two goals, as ATKMB came from behind, thanks to a brace from Roy Krishna, that helped them steal one from the former. Meanwhile, following the game, Krishna was awarded the Man of the Match. He decided to dedicate it to his countrymen, with some of them being homeless in the recent floods.
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"All night long, after winning on Sunday, I just thought of the people in my country, Fiji, who were devastated by the floods and the cyclone. Many are homeless. I thought of those who are waking up at night fearing that the cyclone may come once more. I want to dedicate the goal and the Man of the Match prize to those victims and the people who fought for survival. I also remember the Green-Maroon supporters in India and around the world who have stood by me in many ways," he told ATKMB on Monday.
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"After returning to India, I feel this is the most exciting match that I have ever played. Kerala is a highly organized team. Always gives a fierce fight against us. Falling behind by two goals against that team and a great comeback and win in the end, it is a special feeling. Kerala is defeated by us twice this year. That is also a big thing," he added.
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Krishna asserted that it was the side's determination that played a crucial role in the win. "Kerala's first goal is the turning point of the match. Their second goal was a foul, in my opinion. Even after falling behind 2-0, I never thought we would lose the game. Neither of us wanted to lose two matches in a row. We decided to fight till the last minute. However, we showed our worth in the second half. If we play in such a way, then I am hopeful that we will be able to finish the competition from the top of the league," he continued.
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Speaking on if he was under pressure on helping ATKMB make a turnaround, he agreed to it. "I have no hesitation in admitting that I was under a lot of pressure because I was not getting the expected number of goals. Even after reaching near the goal, I repeatedly failed to score. The pair of goals in the Kerala match is giving me relief from stress and satisfaction. That's why I enjoyed taking off my jersey after the match. I celebrated by flying the jersey. After a long time, I scored a pair of goals. I could have scored a hat trick if I could have used the opportunity. That did not happen. That is fine as the team has won," he concluded.
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