India, Feb. 22 -- Vishal Kaith's goalkick needed contributions from three outfield players for Mohun Bagan Super Giant's second goal against Kerala Blasters scored by Jamie Maclaren. Jason Cummings and Maclaren were the second and third, the slick give-go between mates from Australia's 2022 World Cup squad culminating in a smart finish. But the ball wouldn't have reached Cummings had Lalengmawia Ralte not won an aerial duel before being flattened near the centre-circle.

It is not something Ralte, Apuia to the Indian football community, has done much of this term. The one on Saturday was only the third aerial duel he had won in 18 appearances in this season's Indian Super League (ISL). Used as No.6 by Jose Molina, Ralte's influence is mor...