ISL 2021-22: These were lost points because we had some chances – Odisha FC’s Anshul Katiyar

Odisha FC assistant coach Anshul Katiyar rued the fact that his team lost points against ATK Mohun Bagan in the 53rd match of the ongoing Hero Indian Super League 2021-22 at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda on Sunday after both the teams share the spoils following a 0-0 draw.

Katiyar feels his team had a good opportunity to bag three points because they had their chances but did not convert them. In fact, ATK Mohun Bagan dominated the possession with 55% while they took six shots on target. On the other hand, Odisha FC took a total of three attempts on the goal.

Katiyar also gave his condolences to Subhash Bhowmick’s family.

Anshul Katiyar said in the post-match press conference, “First of all condolences to Subhash Bhowmick’s family, he was a legend. We all have learned something from him and he set a target for all the Indian coaches. So my prayer, my sympathies are with his family and God should give some strength to them”.

He added, “Yeah, we can say these were lost points because we had some chances. I will go back to analyse the game, and we’ll see the xG and all those things. So I think we had chances and we did well in all the parts be it defending or attacking. So yeah, points lost”.

Meanwhile, Liridon Krasniqi was once again impressive for Odisha FC and Katiyar showered praise on the team’s talisman.

He continued, “He’s always impressive. So he just needs to bring consistency, so he’s a different player. So today, he has shown some attitude to the team. And like it was a very good game, but I just want to see more consistency from him like every game he should be at the top level”.

Katiyar also revealed in which areas the team should improve their game in the upcoming matches to have a chance to make it to it to the semifinal stages.

He concluded, “I think we have to improve in all the areas in attacking and defending in transition. So now I think the players are more comfortable, they have proper communication, they have a game plan and now we are ready every day. And I think we are going to improve in all four areas. As you know, in defending set-pieces we have already improved. So from the last two games, we have not conceded any goal from set-pieces. So we are improving step by step all the staff is working towards that”.

Odisha FC will next face Hyderabad FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Thursday.