ISL 2022-23: We deserved at least a point from the game: Chennaiyin FC’s Thomas Brdaric

Chennaiyin FC head coach Thomas Brdaric reckons they at least deserved a point from the game against Kerala Blasters FC, which they ended up losing 2-1 in the latest fixture of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Tuesday.

The Marina Machans were the first to get on the scoresheet as El Khayati continued to impress as he scored in the second minute of play. However, Adrian Luna equalized for the home team in the 38th minute.

Subsequently, Rahul Kannoly Praveen gave a decisive 2-1 lead to the Tuskers. Meanwhile, the visitors took 10 shots off target whereas they took a total of five shots on target but the result didn’t go their way.

“We led 0-1 and tried to defend, but we lost in some spells. We won some duels and kept the character while keeping the pressure. We had a great opportunity to bounce back, it would have been a different game if we scored in that position. In the second half, we did well while defending and did not allow many chances. We were very good throughout the game and deserved at least a point,” Brdaric said in the official post-match press conference.

The German admitted that Kerala Blasters is a tough team and it was a challenge for them to face them on their own turf.

“Kerala Blasters FC are a top team and to face them (on their home ground) is a tough job, we need to show good commitment, and in football if you want to go to the top you have to keep in mind the details, otherwise you are disappointed to not get the three points,” the Chennaiyin FC head coach stated.

Brdaric revealed that the aim will be to reach the playoff stages. Chennaiyin FC is currently in eighth place with only four wins in 17 matches.

“Every match is special in the Hero ISL, the objective is to reach the top six. We will try to catch maximum points and try to build a new CFC, we have to work hard and believe in our way, and I am convinced there will be improvements,” he concluded.

Chennaiyin FC will next face East Bengal FC on Sunday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai.