Punjab FC's Sankarlal Chakraborty highlights 'positives' after draw against NorthEast United

The Shers ended their losing streak after earning a hard-fought point in matchweek 16.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Punjab FC finally put an end to their four-match losing streak with a spirited 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC in matchweek 16. In a game filled with emotion and tactical adjustments, the point earned by the Shers offers much-needed confidence to a team in a tough moment.

The Shers have been far from their best in recent games and it almost went from bad to worse when they were down to 10 men in injury time. Following the game, Punjab FC assistant coach Sankarlal Chakraborty shared his thoughts about the result.

Punjab FC put on a resilient display

The 49-year-old assistant coach lauded the team’s resilience despite setbacks in recent matches in the league. With four losses on the trot, the Shers currently sit eighth in the standings, four points adrift of the top-six spots.

While talking about the recent performances, he stated, “After four losses, getting one point gives us confidence. Also our foreigners and a few Indians also because of the cut, in the last few matches not there. So we are struggling. And the second half we succeed. If maybe Luka scores 2-1. Also, they created some chances. So ultimately end of the day, one point is giving us little confidence. “

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Changes in formation mid-game worked for the Shers

The game showcased Punjab’s adaptability, with Chakraborty revealing pre-match discussions with fellow coaches about changing tactics. He revealed their decision to shift formations in case the team faced a deficit in the first half.

The decision paid dividends when Filip Mrzjlak, returning after injury, stabilized the defense, allowing the team to focus on attack in the second half. In Mrzjlak’s absence, Punjab has been a shadow of the team from early on in the ISL season.

Young Shers shine in tough moments

Punjab’s goal in the 82nd minute was a moment of pride, as it came from one of their promising youngsters straight from their academy. K Lhungdim found the net after a brilliant dribble and cross from fellow teammate and academy graduate Muhammad Suhail F.

Talking about the fantastic move for the goal, Chakraborty stated, “That cross, the dribbling, and the finish—it’s all part of our plan to develop young players.” The goal not only ended Punjab’s scoring drought but also highlighted the effectiveness of their youth development strategy.

However, the coach acknowledged the emotional challenges faced by the young squad, especially after the team was reduced to 10 men in the closing stages.

While talking about the younger players Sankarlal Chakraborty stated, “It’s natural for emotions to affect focus, but it’s part of learning.”

The draw provides a platform for Punjab FC to rebuild their momentum in the ISL. While the result may not completely satisfy their ambitions, it underscores their commitment to growth and development in upcoming games. Backed by the youth from their academy, the Shers will be keen to get into the top six spots come the end of the ISL regular season.

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