Tackling is one of the most important facets of football and making a good tackle is even more critical. The cardinal purpose of a tackle is to dispossess the opponent of the ball and disrupt the rival team’s play or ideally win back possession for your side. But as serviceable as a tackle may be, an error of judgment can transform a tackle into a foul.While a good tackle can prevent dangerous situations from developing and even a goal from being scored, a poor tackle can lead to the referee blowing for a foul and a free kick being awarded which could be potentially threatening to the defending side or even a penalty awarded if the foul takes place inside the box.The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) has seen plenty of tackles being thrown about, some good, some bad. Most surprisingly, an Indian player, Denson Devadas, is leading the field in the tackling department. It must be pointed out though that Guilherme Felipe de Castro has the best average among the top tacklers. Indians seem to be adept at the tackling business because several more check into the list from 11 to 20 (see link) Here is the line-up of the best tacklers of the ISL:1. Denson Devadas (Chennaiyin FC): Denson Devadas has put in the highest number of tackles as of now. The Kerala midfielder tops the list with 36 tackles in his nine appearances and has been one of the most proactive players when it comes to winning the ball back. His tackles may not have all be clean, but then again, no one holds a 100% record for clean tackles.2. Guilherme Felipe de Castro (NorthEast United FC): The 22-year-old Brazilian has had a significant impact in the Highlanders midfield. He has made 35 tackles in his seven outings for the club, which means he has the best average in the business. Castro has been extremely lively in the middle of the park, not only winning the ball back but even carrying it forward. He even has one goal to his name.3. Borja Fernández (Atlético de Kolkata): The former Los Blancos man has been the pivot in the Kolkata midfield. Distribution and holding the ball are strong suits for the 33-year-old Spanish midfielder who plays in a central defensive role. He has made 33 tackles in his nine games. Borja has even scored a stunning goal and has an assist to his credit, throwing light on his excellent technical abilities.4. Bruno Cirillo (FC Pune City): The Deccan team’s most consistent centre-back has played in all 10 games and has 31 tackles to his credit; some of them have been vital last ditch tackles, both inside and outside his box.5. Sandesh Jhingan (Kerala Blasters FC) & Debabrata Roy (FC Goa): Sandesh Jhingan and Debarata Roy share fifth spot with 28 tackles each. Jhingan’s solid performances for the men in yellow have seen him being voted ‘Player of the Week’ by the fans. He even has one assist. Debarata Roy has been one of Zico’s most consistent players at right back. Both players have played nine games each for their respective teams.
