Ivan Vukomanovic: We were missing that last touch today

The Yellow Army faced a narrow defeat against the Blues in a tight contest.

Kerala Blasters FC suffered their seventh defeat of the 2022-23 Indian Super League (ISL) season after a 1-0 loss to Bengaluru FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday. A win would have confirmed ISL playoff qualification for Ivan Vukomanovic’s men.

However, they could not find the means to stop a spirited Bengaluru FC from winning their sixth consecutive game. According to KBFC’s head coach, individual errors were the reason his team ended up on the losing side.

Here are the excerpts from Ivan Vukomanovic’s conversation with the media after the loss:

Lack of finishing touch

Ivan Vukomanovic explained that his team did their duties well, moved the ball impressively, and played to the strategy. “We had a plan today on how to manage this game and how to control it. In most of the game, we were in control of possession and things we wanted to achieve in terms of movement. We were happy as a coaching staff because we started the game as per our preparations.” 

“I think we were missing that last touch today. I don’t believe in luck, it is something that you have to deserve. In the end, of course, we are sorry because of the result. The way we played and controlled the game, we are happy about that.” he further added lamenting the lack of finishing quality.

Proud of the boys

The tactician was not shy of praising his players despite the defeat. He said, “The guys did a great job. As a coach, I am proud. We knew it will be a tough game. Bengaluru FC is a really good team that started poorly but has consolidated in the season. They have good individual players so there is a reason why they are there right now (in the top six). I would also like to congratulate our fans for making it feel like we were playing at home. It was priceless, and a big thank you to them from my heart.”

No room for errors

Ivan Vukomanovic talked about Hormipam Ruivah’s mistake that allowed Roy Krishna to go past him in a one-on-one situation to score on the near post. He said, “These kinds of things, in these kinds of games make a difference. If you want to get something from these kinds of games, you must be fully concentrated and must not allow your opponent these moments. It was an individual mistake that cost us the points.