Kerala’s Messi ekes out draw in Jamshedpur FC clash

Kochi: Raphael Messi Bouli struck twice in the last 15 minutes to eke out a 2-2 draw for Kerala Blasters against Jamshedpur in an Indian Super League clash here on Friday.
Kerala had the better chances to score but it was a Piti (38′) penalty that broke the deadlock. CK Vineeth (71′) added the visitor’s second before Raphael Messi Bouli scored a brace (75′, 87′) to pull his team level.
Mario Arques, who was deemed fit to start after a lengthy layoff, nearly got his team off to a splendid start. Seityasen Singh nicked the ball on the right flank and cut inside to deliver a threatening cross that was headed straight at the goalkeeper by the Spanish midfielder at the far post.
The visitors were careless in possession early in the game, with Jeakson stealing the ball off Aitor Monroy to set Raphael Messi Bouli free, but the Cameroonian striker couldn’t keep his shot on target. With the spoils being shared, Jamshedpur are third with 13 points from eight matches while Kerala sit seventh with seven points. (PTI)