Odisha inches closer to top half with Hyderabad win

Carlos Delgado (27’) and Xisco Hernandez (41’) gave Odisha a first-half lead before Bobo (65’) scored from the spot to set up a nervy finish to the game. Odisha was awarded a penalty of its own at the other end, which Martin Guedes converted to secure the three points. Rohit Kumar (89’) pulled one back at the death for the home side.

Odisha had Vinit Rai sent off for a second bookable offence in the 65th minute but it soldiered on for the rest of the match.

After eight matches, Odisha is sixth on the table with nine points while Hyderabad is at the bottom with four points.

The host’s intent to get off the mark quickly was evident as it pressed high up the field in a bid to launch one attack after another. Aridane Santana flicked a good cross-field ball by DiawandouDiagne into the path of NandhakumarSekar who was dispossessed by Adil Khan with a brilliant tackle just before the winger could get a shot away.

The intensity bore fruit as Xisco, who was ever-present in midfield, set up the first goal with a dangerous in-swinging delivery from a corner. Goalkeeper Kamaljit failed to punch the ball away and Delgado made full use of the chance to head home the opening goal. A curling effort from Robin Singh flew inches wide as Hyderabad attempted to equalise but it was the home team which struck again before the break.