I-league Halftime Report: How teams have fared and what to expect in the second half

ROUND 9 SINGNIFIES THE END OF HALF THE SEASON and we look at the teams' performances so far and try to understand what they need to do in the order either cement their place or move away from uncomfortable positions.

A lot of things did not turn up as they way it was expected to be. The title race is no longer a three horse race between the most expected teams, although two of the three are still leading but the defending champions are clearly not at par with their biggest challengers. Aizawl FC have been the surprise team that has sneaked up by some impressive football and tactics. Teams like DSK Shivajians are not anywhere close to the bottom and are only looking to move higher with confidence. The two debutants and the returning Churchill Brothers are fairly in the deserved position as per their performances. Shillong are right there mid table but have shown potential to do only better. Mumbai FC started well but have been sinking game after game.