Former ISL hitman Roy Krishna made a memorable debut in the Super League Kerala, scoring a penalty to give Malappuram FC a 1-0 win over Thrissur Magic at the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri on Friday.

The Fijian striker converted from the spot in the 72nd minute. It was Thrissur franchise that began strongly, with Serbian Ivan Markovic’s forcing a smart save from Azhar. The Malappuram goalkeeper also kept out a powerful drive from Bibin Ajayan in the 11th minute.

While Malappuram attackers Krishna, Gani and Faslu looked off-colour in the first half, the visitors threatened to break the deadlock with every move. A Marcus Joseph shot sailed over the bar in the 37th minute.

After a goalless first half, Malappuram showed more urgency and made an attempt within three minutes of restart. But Abhijith's effort lacked the power to put the Thrissur goalkeeper Kamaluddin under pressure.

The introduction of Brazilian John Kennedy after the hour gave Malappuram more attacking options, and he forced a save.

The breakthrough came in the 72nd minute, when Senthamizh fouled Hakku inside the box. Krishna made no mistake from the spot.

After a break on Saturday, SLK will resume Sunday with the Thiruvananthapuram Kombans playing their first home match of the season against Kannur Warriors at Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium, starting 7.30 pm. The match will be broadcast on Sony Ten 2, DD Malayalam, and Sports.com.

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