ISL 2021: Dias happy with Odisha FC’s youngsters performance after win over SC East Bengal

Odisha FC won their last league match of the ongoing Indian Super League 2020-21 against SC East Bengal by 6-5 in the 108th match at the GMC Stadium, Bambolim on Saturday. Odisha were 2-1 behind at the half-time but they bounced in style as they scored five more goals in the second half.

Zuala and Diego Mauricio scored one goal each whereas Paul and Jerry scored a brace for Odisha FC. The club’s interim head coach Steven Dias was happy with the performances of the young guns after a thrilling win over SC East Bengal.

“It was a very entertaining game but personally, it was too much pressure for me. When I spoke to the boys, they said that they are with me and they showed that they could do it. So, I am very happy,” Dias said at the post-match press conference.

Dias revealed why he gave chances to the young players in the match and he was delighted with the performance of his players.

“When we started this club, the owner’s idea was to get young players, work on them and give them chances. In the training sessions also they give their best. Throughout the season they didn’t get a chance, but they were working hard on the training ground. I felt this was the best chance to give these players.” 

Meanwhile, Vinit Rai was handed over the captaincy baton in the absence of Steven Taylor and Dias feels Rai can be the future captain of the club as he has got the leadership skills.

Odisha could only manage two wins in the season and finished as the wooden spooners of the tournament with only 12 points.

On the other hand, SC East Bengal head coach Robbie Fowler was disappointed with performance of his players. East Bengal could only win three matches in the season and finished with 17 points. This was the last league match and the semi-final stages will begin from Friday.