STEVE COPPELL: PLAYERS PLAYED WITH ALOT MORE ZEST, AS THEY HAS A POINT TO PROVE TODAY

Kerala blasters the Kochi based franchise owned by Sachin Tendulkar earned their first victory in this addition of the Indian Super League.

Mumbai City FC's unbeaten start has been ended by Kerala Blasters in Kochi, in front of their 40,000 fans at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Michael Chopra scored in the 58th minute of the match and was the only goal of the game, as the score line stand 1-0.

“There was a lot more zest today, the way our team played today. The players were driven to prove a point today. They took the game to the opposition. It was because of that extra drive that we created more opportunities. You can't guarantee scoring goals but if you keep creating opportunities over a period of time you will get your return,” said Coppell.

 

He continued: “It would be easier for the players to get discouraged in the second half, but the players just kept on going. The energy in the team was most impressive for me. They wanted to make the fans happy. I hope the fans noticed that the players are very committed to the cause.”

 

Steve Coppell side put up a tremendous performance against Mumbai City FC, which limits Mumbai’s attacking threat. As Mumbai City FC was coming in to the match unbeaten, the mens in yellow displayed a solid defensive play. Coppell admitted that a solid defensive unit is the key of success for any team.

 

“After the last game I thought Cedric [Hengbart] would have struggled but he is a warrior, he wants to play every game. He works very hard to be fit. Aaron Hughes flew 15-20 hours from Germany and he came in and told me I want to play. A solid defensive unit is very important as it gives us a strong base going forward. Everyone played an important role today. If you are going to be a successful team you need everyone in the team to do their part.” he said.

 

Steve Coppell said he will be look at one at one time, he won’t be rushing thing. “I don't believe in setting up targets. Game by game I try to plan and win the game. The goal that Atlético de Kolkata scored against us was a deflected shot. It seemed a little cruel to us. But the points would obviously make a difference. That's how it is. Every game is going to come thick and fast now, so we have to collect as many points as possible. Once we come into rhythm we will keep winning,” he said.