The Boss Discusses A Feisty Game Against FC Goa, Injuries And Bench Strength After The Blues’ Fourth Straight Win On The Road
On a game that wasn’t short on drama…
We had a plan for the game which was working well. But then there were some moments which completely turned around the emotion of the game. The two red cards changed everything. At the end it was about who would score that second goal, and I think we were clinical on the counter attack with Sunil and we got that goal. So, I’m very happy with the result.
On injuries to Miku and Erik and their possible return…
We’re not really sure about it. It was all of a sudden that Miku suffered an ankle issue. With Eric it was an unfortunate toe infection, and he had to stop. I’m not very sure about their return at the moment.
On his reaction after Dimas’ sending off…
I was very shocked with the decision and that’s why I reacted. But I think that referees have a very difficult job and we have to try to help them. But sometimes they take a decision based on the circumstances. Maybe, in another moment of the game, if the other team wouldn’t have got a red card, he would’ve shown a yellow in that situation. But like I said, they have a difficult job and we have to try to help them.
On Rahul Bheke’s performance…
He is doing a wonderful job on the field and helping the team in all aspects. He has so much quality not only in defence but even in going forward. He could even score some more goals in the season because he has that ability when we push forward. So, I’m very happy for him.
On the Blues’ bench strength…
Everybody in our team is focused on their work right from the start of the season and they’re doing really well. Considering our schedule, we took the decision of playing the squad that did today. Of course, when you have some time between the games, and after winning three in a row you can bring in other players, because it’s comparatively easier. But today it was a different situation for us and we were forced into the changes. I’m so happy with today’s performance, because the boys showed how hard we have been working in the training. We have five games in the next few days, and it’s an opportunity for all the players who haven’t been involved much to rise up to the occasion.
On the goals for the season…
I have been very clear with our objectives since the start of the season. The goal is to qualify for the play-offs. Because it’s then that you go for the title, and you never know how it’s going to pan out. The work has to be done now to reach the play-offs and then it’s about three games. You never know who is going to come into that stage with the best dynamics in the team, the best physical condition and so on. But it’s a long time until then.
