Goals from two Malayalis gave Punjab FC a second win in the Indian Super League. Nihal Sudheesh and Leon Augustine scored as Punjab defeated Odisha FC 2-1, making it two wins in a row.
Nihal timed his run into the box to receive a delightful back pass from Mrzljak and placed a curler into the far corner beyond the reach of a diving Amrinder Singh in the 28th minute. The Ernakulam lad had a modest goal celebration, one that involved a tribute to injured striker Luka Majcen.
In contrast, Kozhikode native Leon's strike and celebration were vibrant in the 89th minute. The speedster that he is, dashed into the box before firing it home, low and into the far corner. He then sprinted out of the play area to celebrate his first goal of the season.
Punjab started their season with a 2-1 win against Kerala Blasters in Kochi on Thiruvonam Day. Leon made a telling contribution in that game, coming on as a substitute and winning the penalty that was tucked away by Luka Majcen to give Punjab a lead.
While Nihal started the game like he did in Kochi, Leon yet again proved to be the super sub for Punjab. Nihal is on a season-long loan from the Blasters. Leon is a former Bengaluru FC player.