Sat Jan 18 20:57:55 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Blasters Held to Goalless Draw After Red Card Incident
**Kochi:** Kerala Blasters were held to a goalless draw by NorthEast United FC in an ISL match at Kochi. The match was significantly impacted by a red card shown to Blasters player, Iban, in the 30th minute. This left Kerala playing with ten men for the majority of the game.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Kerala goalkeeper Sachin Suresh made several crucial saves, preventing NorthEast United from scoring. Early in the game, Adrian Luna had a goal disallowed for a foul. The match became increasingly physical, resulting in a yellow card for NorthEast’s McCartan in the 23rd minute. However, the red card shown to Iban for a clash with NorthEast’s Ajariya proved to be a turning point.
Despite intense pressure from NorthEast in the second half, and several opportunities for Luna from free kicks, Sachin Suresh’s heroics kept the scoreline at 0-0. Kerala’s resolute defense ensured they held on for a point, despite playing with ten men.
The draw takes Kerala Blasters to eighth place in the ISL table with 21 points from 17 matches. NorthEast United remain in fifth place with 25 points.
First Piper 