Kozhikode (Kerala), India, April 1 (ANI): It seems unstoppable Fazila Ikwaput This season, the Ugandan forward once again proved to be the decisive factor. Gokulam Kerala FC edged Sethu FC 1-0 in a tightly contested match during the 2024-25 season Indian Women's League fixture at the EMS Corporation Stadium on Monday.
Ikwaput's goal in the 14th minute, marking her 20th tally for the season, secured crucial three points for the Malabarians, keeping them hot on the heels of league frontrunners East Bengal FC. Gokulam Kerala remain second in the standings with 26 points from 11 matches, four points behind East Bengal, who sit atop the table with 30 points from as many games. The Moshal Girls are two wins away from their maiden IWL trophy with just three rounds to go. As such, it was a must-win fixture for the Malabarians to maintain the pressure on the leaders and stretch the title race.
For Sethu FC After returning to familiar disappointments following a victory against the reigning champions, Odisha, which ended their losing streak, the Madurai team struggled to maintain that positive energy. They faltered yet again due to their inability to be decisive in front of the opposition’s goal. This loss marked their sixth defeat this season and left them clinging to the fourth spot with 13 points accumulated from 11 matches played.
From the outset, Gokulam Kerala indicated their offensive intentions. Through relentless pressure and rapid counterattacks, they disrupted Sethu’s flow, leaving them unable to establish any momentum. The first goal came within the initial 15 minutes as Ikwaput capitalized on a mistake at the back, calmly finishing the chance, thus contributing to her growing list of scores.
The initial goal boosted the pace of play for the home team, allowing them to break through the Sethu defense effortlessly. However, even though they had plenty of chances, especially those created by Ikwaput and R Darshinidevi, the final product frequently eluded them.
Credit goes to Sethu for responding in the second half with greater intensity. Both Amnah Nababi and Malavika P sought to take charge in midfield and aimed to find a way back into the game. Nonetheless, Gokulam Kerala The team’s defense held strong, guided skillfully by their defenders and goalkeeper Payal Basude, who stayed calm and vigilant against all threats. (ANI)
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