We aim to stay positive, but these referees couldn't lead or manage the game: Kerala Blasters boss Ivan Vukomanović

Ivan praised Kwame Peprah’s performance.

In a match marked by intense moments and controversial decisions, Kerala Blasters’ head coach, Ivan Vukomanović, shared his thoughts after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Chennaiyin FC. The post-match conference delved into various pivotal incidents that shaped the game and shed light on player performances and the challenges faced during the encounter.

Referee Decisions and Frustration

Reflecting on the early setback of conceding a goal in the first minute, Vukomanović expressed frustration with referee decisions.

He lamented incidents involving offside positions and a lack of reaction from match officials, stating, “You know, it’s like having a season ticket, conceding goals against Chennaiyin in the first minute, as we did last year. Funny thing is, it happened in front of the bench. No foul, then offside at the goal, a player influencing our goalkeeper in an offside position. Referees don’t react in the first minute.

“I’m fed up; I don’t need to talk about it anymore. The second goal we conceded, a clear foul on Hormipam. Watching the videos, you wonder how they can’t see that. Offside positions, late linesmen—it’s frustrating. We aim to stay positive, but these referees couldn’t lead or manage the game.

“It’s not their fault; it’s the fault of those educating them. It’s the third year, and I see this year’s outcomes won’t be decided by teams or players, but by referees. Our system, technologies—we’ll deal with it. When the game starts like that, referees lose control, and everyone gets frustrated for many different situations,” he added.

Team’s Response and Resilience

Despite the hurdles, Vukomanović praised his team’s resilience in bouncing back. “After conceding goals, the team tried to bounce back. Despite a penalty setback, in the second half, the players responded well. Scoring two goals, creating chances, and showing resilience.

“However, frustration lingers from early referee decisions. We’re tired of discussing it, hoping for improvement. Want to stay positive and optimistic despite challenges in managing the game. Frustration may affect the spirit of the game for viewers. Yet, we move forward, grateful for securing one point and maintaining a positive outlook,” he added.

Kwame Peprah’s Impact

The coach also acknowledged the significance of Kwame Peprah’s first goal for Kerala Blasters in the league, highlighting the challenges faced by foreign players in adapting to the conditions and expressing optimism about Peprah’s growth potential within the team.

“When we managed to sign him, we saw his potential as a great player who can make a difference in the ISL. Arriving late in the preseason without a proper training period in the challenging conditions of India makes it tough. Many foreign players underestimate the league initially. He needed time, and day by day, he’s improving. I’m glad he scored today; he’s valuable to our attack. He can make a difference one against one. He’s a great guy, a young player with room for improvement, and I hope he’ll show us more.”

Approach to the Southern Derby

Regarding the highly anticipated Southern Derby, Vukomanović emphasized maintaining a consistent approach despite the match’s hype, attributing the game’s uniqueness to the short turnaround time from their previous fixture.

“Every time we create a positive moment or see our players making impactful moves, and you hear that roar from the stands, it’s a fantastic feeling. Despite conceding three goals, we told the team at halftime to go out, aim for a goal in the first 15 minutes, and they did just that.”

Turning Points and Positive Moments

Commenting on game-changing moments, the coach highlighted the impact of standout goals by Dimitrios and Pepra while lamenting the unfortunate turn caused by early game incidents that significantly altered the match’s direction.

” If I had to pinpoint a moment, Dimitrios and Pepra’s fantastic goals were highlights due to their quality. But the turning point? It was that unfortunate first-minute situation with no foul and an offside position that altered the game’s direction. As an ex-player, you have the power to influence the game on the pitch, but as a coach, you sit frustrated, wanting to participate. However, it was a valuable game for us, a lesson in how to progress.”

Dimitrios and Luna’s Performances

In his assessment of individual player performances, Vukomanović commended Dimi’s exceptional striking abilities and professional demeanor, considering him a league standout. He also praised Luna’s resilience and determined mindset, despite battling a recent fever, applauding both players for setting high standards at Kerala Blasters.

“Dimi has shown himself to be an exceptional striker, possibly one of the league’s finest. His quality on and off the field, his dedication in training, and his professional demeanor set a high standard for everyone at Kerala Blasters. He’s lethal in front of goal, and opponents must be cautious as he’s always hungry for goals, displaying the classic mentality of a striker.”

The coach concluded with optimism, hoping to carry forward the team’s positive momentum as they embark on what he views as just the beginning of their journey.

“Luna, despite battling a recent fever and missing a training session, exemplifies an invaluable mindset. His resilience and determination are exemplary for all players in the league. As a coach, having such individuals in the team boosts morale and sets an example for others. Hopefully, this momentum continues as we’re just at the beginning of our journey.”

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