After the 1-1 draw in a thrilling game against SC East Bengal, Head Coach Manolo Marquez speaks about his side’s performance, the recent results and more…

On the result…

We are satisfied with the result because of the late equalizer. We had a shot hit the post but not long later, Bright managed to score at the other end. We were nervous after the goal but it is normal that we scored after pushing everyone into the attack. It is a crucial point for us in this race to the top-4.

On the opponents…

East Bengal are currently in-form and have one of the best squads in the competition. They have made a lot of changes to the squad after a slow start to the season. They deserve more points than they have on the table but for me, I am only concerned about my team and we are currently having a really good season.

On results in the last few games…

We are near the end of the competition and yes, it is difficult to win games in this time, not just for us, but for all teams. We still have to play ATK Mohun Bagan and FC Goa, so our schedule is a bit tough. But we will continue fighting till the end. I am really proud of my team and satisfied with their season so far, as we are still in contention for a place in the top-4, with three games left to play.

On Subrata Paul…

Subrata is a really good goalkeeper. But like Adil Khan, they need more game time. But I have a confident keeper and a really good centre-back partnership so they had to go elsewhere to start regularly. Subrata is a really good keeper, but for me, Laxmikant Kattimani is playing one of his best seasons and I am happy with my options.

On the team chemistry…

I think that the overseas players need the Indian players as much as the Indian youngsters need foreign players. As for the Red Card, I think lack of experience is a reason. Mohammad Yasir is a young player and these things can happen. But he played really well and so did Rohit Danu and Liston Colaco. It is impossible for me to ask for more from these players and I am really happy with their efforts.