AHMEDABAD, APRIL 29: Mumbai Knights FC continued their winning start to the IWL 2023 with a 1-0 win against Mara Rukmani FC held on Saturday, 29th April 2023 at the Shahibaug Police Ground.
Both teams came into these match with contradictory results in their opening matches. Mumbai Knights FC registered a 1-0 win over Kahaani FC. While Mata Rukmani FC lost 2-0 against Misaka United FC.
Mumbai Knights tweaked their formation from a 5-3-2 to a 4-3-3, playing three unfront with Bhumika Mane playing alongside Priyanka and Karishma. Sonali came in for Pranita at right back. Ritu and Afreen were the centre-back pairing as Mansi who was the player of the match continued at left back.
Valenie replaced Valencia in midfield as Karen and Sushmita kept their place. It took only 12 minutes for Mumbai Knights to get on board as Priyanka’s shot went in off Namita Belsariya and was adjudged an own goal.
The Knights took a commanding 1-0 lead into the break with some excellent possession of the ball and were unlucky not score more.
Mata Rukmani FC were astute in defense doing extremely well to clear their lines as Mumbai Knights FC went in search of the second. Bhumika did extremely well to link up with Priyanka and Karishma but picked up a booking towards the end of the first half. She was replaced by Janhavi Shetty.
Karen Pias also had an excellent game as it becomes very crucial for her to dominate in midfield and keep the possession of the ball when leading 1-0. She was replaced by Mmehak Lobo. Pranita came on for Sushmita towards the 72nd minute as head coach Rutuja Gunwant looked to keep hold of the game with some fresh legs in midfield.
Mumbai Knights FC managed to hold on to their 1-0 lead and wrapped up another three points making it six out of six points to start their IWL campaign.
Next up for Mumbai Knights is a clash against Misaka United FC who will be coming of a 1-0 loss to HOPS FC.
