Kerala Blasters FC host NorthEast United FC on the back of two disappointing defeats to the two top ranked teams of the Hero Indian Super League. The Highlanders on the other hand, blew hot and cold as they beat top ranked Chennaiyin FC 3-0 and then crashed to a defeat against second placed FC Goa by the same margin. David James’ side are fourth in the league table and will need to win this one to boosts their chances of a semi-final slot. A win for the visitors would see them replace the hosts in the top four though. The last time these teams met, Koke scored the match winner on the stroke of half-time. Kerala will be looking to avenge that loss at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Thursday.Kerala’s problem has been scoring goals. With only eight so far, they are bottom of the goals scored list. The away side in comparison have netted 10. Having taken one less shot than the home side (134-135), the shooting accuracy for the Highlanders has however been higher with more shots on target (72-67). They’ve even put in more crosses (227-217) and will be encouraged by these statistics to take the game to the Keralites. NorthEast United look the stronger even from a defensive point of view, having had more interceptions (367-315) and blocks (80-71). Their defence has kept one clean sheet more than their hosts too (5-4).Form Guide (most recent matches first)Kerala Blasters FC: LLWWDNorthEast United FC: LWLLD Iain Hume vs Massamba Lô SambouThe former Canadian international striker has had a few excellent games and has netted thrice already. He is the go to man for James. His tenacity and work rate on the pitch are his biggest assets. His sheer willingness to accept a pass and get forward with the ball makes him a tough opponent to defend against. Hume will come up against the huge Senegalese defender who uses his strength to good advantage to keep attackers at bay. Sambou had a very good game against top-ranked Chennaiyin FC and scored twice, though he later faltered against Goa. He would like to prove his worth again.Stephen Pearson vs KokeStephen Pearson has formed a stable partnership with Frenchman Raphael Romey in the centre of the park. The ability of the Scotsman to venture forward with the ball may cause problems to the NorthEast defence. Having playing in England, the former Scottish international brings quality to the Kerala team and will be desperate to get them going. Up against him will be the charismatic Koke, who has been Ricki Herbert’s main man in attack. Having netted thrice, the Spaniard will hope to increase his tally and help his team leapfrog their opponents.Sandesh Jhingan vs Zodingliana The Indian full back has been a bright spark for the Blasters. His movement and passing down the right flank have been excellent. Jhingan has been one of the best young players so far. His ability to attack and defend equally well makes him a dangerous player on the field. Against him will be Mizoram’s ‘Adinga’. The winger has a good turn of pace, is skilful and crosses well. He will however, have to negotiate past the Chandigarh man.Players to watchKerala Blasters FCMilagres Gonsalves - The Goan has netted just once in the tournament so far, against the team from his home state. He will be desperate to get on to the score sheet once more in order to propel his team up the league table. His movement and intelligence on the field are his biggest assets and Gonsalves will look to use them to his benefit.NorthEast United FCDurga Boro - The Assamese striker is a live wire on the pitch. He’s netted just once in the competition so far, but in the previous encounter between these sides, the youngster tested James with a stinging shot from distance. He will look to do more of that and hit the target much more than he has during the course of the competition.Team speakKerala Blasters FCDavid James (Player-head coach): “As understanding as I am about the excitement of the fans, I don’t want this anxiety (of winning the next two games) to fall upon my players.”NorthEast United FCRicki Herbert (head coach): “We have been tagged as underdogs since the beginning of the season and I don’t mind being tagged that, as it doesn’t change anything.”
