Calcutta/ Kochi: Kerala Blasters FC got off to a fantastic start with a fine 3-1 win over NorthEast United FC in an ISL II encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Tuesday.

Josue Currias drew first blood for the Blasters in the 49th minute before Mohammed Rafi and Sanchez Watt added two more for the hosts late in the second session before Nicolas Velez got a consolation goal for NUFC eight minutes before regulation time.

Both teams started on a tentative note with action restricted mainly in the midfield. The Blasters had a chance early in the seventh minute when Rahul Bheke sent one through for Chris Dagnall only for the rival goalie to avert further danger.

NorthEast soon settled into the game patiently, trying to unlock the Blasters' defence with Bruno Arias in particular asserting his presence in the midfield. But as the game progressed, the finalists of last year were gradually on their way to having control of the game.

The first half finishing goalless, the Blasters finally were able to take the lead when Currias, receiving the ball after CK Vineeth scuffed an attempted scissor kick, volleyed home from just inside the box. A little while later, the Blasters extended their lead as Rafi headed the ball into the far corner after Peter Ramage glanced the ball on for him off Bheke's throw-in.

It became agonising for the visitors as soon after, Watt, on receiving a header from Rafi, raced clear and slotted the ball home, beating NUFC goalkeeper TP Rehenesh comfortably, much to the delight of the home supporters.

Velez somehow ensured NUFC had at least something to show in a game where practically nothing went their way. He did brilliantly to cut in from the left and finish spectacularly into the top corner at the far post.

Blasters head coach Peter Taylor responded instantly, bringing on the more defensive minded Joao Coimbra for goal-scorer Currias to tighten the backline. Coimbra did his job well, making it difficult for NUFC to put together another chance of any meaning.