Robert Jarni: It was a very tough game against Bengaluru FC

The Croatian revealed he was 'happy' with the single point against the Blues.

After a goalless draw against Bengaluru FC, NorthEast United head coach Robert Jarni met the press in the post-match conference on Monday night in Bengaluru. While NorthEast United had limited chances, despite having one of the most high-profile strikers in the league in Asamoah Gyan, the Highlanders failed to score against the reigning champions at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.

A trip to the defending champions' home for the first game of the season was as tough as it could get, but the Highlanders were spirited and could come away with a well-earned point. Robert Jarni sounded satisfied with his team’s performance.

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“It was a very tough game against a very good side, who unsurprisingly are also the defending champions and at a very difficult stadium. Both teams had the chances to win the game,” Robert Jarni began.

“I am happy with the point and I am very proud of the players today. We need to improve in the next 2-3 games, so that we can emerge with three points from games like today,” the Croatian added.

Thoughts On Away Support

The Highlanders were cheered on by a decently loud away support at the Kanteerava on Monday night, which didn’t escape the tactician’s notice. “It was a surprise for me to see the support for NorthEast here today. But, most importantly, it was special for the players who felt the support on the pitch. We are waiting for our home game with a big crowd against Odisha FC. We can’t wait to play in front of our people," Robert Jarni expressed.

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NorthEast United played a friendly against the Indian national team in Guwahati barely a fortnight ago as part of their pre-season preparations. On being asked if the presence of a couple of national team players in Bengaluru’s ranks helped him devise any strategies, Robert Jarni quipped, “The only help we had from that game today was that Bengaluru couldn’t work with those players this whole time. As a coach, you always want your full squad available to you for training.”

NorthEast United face Odisha FC in their next ISL game on October 26 in Guwahati.