So then, it is Kozhikode versus Kochi in the ultimate showdown of the first season of Super League Kerala. Forca Kochi joined Calicut FC in the final with a 2-0 win over Kannur Warriors in the second semifinal at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode.
Brazilian striker Dorielton struck a brace in the second half to send Forca, co-owned by popular actor Prithviraj, into the title clash to be played at the same venue on November 10. Their opponents for the Sunday showdown had posted a 2-1 comeback win over Thiruvananthapuram Kombans in the first semifinal on Tuesday.
Forca dominated possession in the early exchanges and threatened to break down the Warriors with well-organised build-up play. The Kannur side focused on counter-attacks, but it remained even in the first 45 minutes.
In the second period, the Warriors returned strong, with Cameroonian midfielder Lavsamba asserting his influence in the game by linking up with striker Asier Gomes. But it was the Kochi side that found the breakthrough.
Dorielton received a cross inside the box, and after skilfully controlling it on his chest, the striker produced a stunning bicycle kick to put Forca ahead in the 71st minute. The powerful striker scored again in the 78th minute to send the Forca fans into wild celebrations.
