Internet Desk: The Indian Super League (ISL) opener between Kerala Blasters and ATK in Kochi on Friday ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw.
The game, a rematch of the 2016 final, was expected to produce fireworks galore but fizzled out tamely with neither team creating concrete chances.
Though Kerala Blasters featured the likes of Dimitar Berbatov and Iain Hume, they rarely managed to trouble the defending champions who enjoyed the majority of possession.
ATK had the best chance of the game when left winger Zequinha cut in from the wings and struck the post with a long ranger.
ATK youngster Hitesh Sharma too came close to the goal but his shot from close range was brilliantly stopped by the Kerala Blasters custodian.
On the flip side, ATK goalkeeper Debjit Majumder too was in sublime form and made a few outstanding saves, including one off CK Vineeth.
In the end, both teams will be pleased to have got points on board in what is set to be a long season.