Kannur Warriors made a winning start to Super League Kerala away from home, defeating hosts Thiruvananthapuram Kombans 3-2 at the Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium on Sunday.

Senegalese striker Abdou Karim Samb had made it 3-1, converting beautifully with the backheel in the second minute of seven added on time at the end of 90.

The hosts were given hope with a minute to go when substitute Viknesh M fired in a powerful freekick, but it was too late, and the visitors took home three points.

In the end, it was a silly own goal conceded by the Kombans defender Felipe Alves in the 74th minute that proved decisive. The Brazilian defender, under no pressure, went hard at a low cross, only to fire it into his own net.

That goal, which came against the run of play, ruined the momentum gained by Autemar Bispo's 52nd-minute penalty that levelled the scores. Autemar had won the penalty after drawing a foul from Vikas.

Earlier, local lad Shijin T made a memorable return to his district by scoring the opener. An Asier Gomez corner missed a bunch of men at the first post, only to fall kindly in front of Shijin. But the striker still had to be aware of the opportunity to score on the stretch to put the Warriors ahead in the 28th minute.

The visiting goalkeeper, Ubaid C K, had been brilliant with a host of saves, including a close-range attempt from Ronald Melo.

The Kombans will resume the second week of Super League Kerala at home against Forca Kochi on October 10. Holders Calicut FC will host Thrissur Magic at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode on October 11, while Malappuram FC and the Warriors have a date at the Payyanad Stadium on October 12.

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