Eelco Schattorie: Referee was against us in Jamshedpur game

The Dutchman revealed that his side are motivated to achieve a positive result against the Gaurs.

Kerala Blasters will face FC Goa on January 25th for their 14th league match of the season. Currently, the Blasters are placed in eighth spot, with merely five victories in the league so far. Head coach Eelco Schattorie and defender Jessel Carneiro addressed the media ahead of the game.

About The Previous Loss & Refereeing

Firstly, Schattorie was asked whether he felt that the team was in the best possible shape ahead of this match. He said, “Yes, meaning, till now. I, not one time, had a feeling that the players were not motivated. I mean, whatever XI played till now, their motivation and the atmosphere always has been good." [KH_ADWORDS type="3" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] "Of course, last game, the loss was painful and I want to rectify something. Also, the TV was basically showing or painting a picture that I was angry at the referee for the penalty but I wasn’t, because I couldn’t see it." “Yes, I was disappointed at the moment, but from the first minute till the last minute, the referee was against us. I can show on video that it was a disgusting foul on Mario (Arques) and Moustapha (Gning). The goal 1-1 they scored, there was a handball given to Sahal that everyone could see wasn’t a handball. “The 2-2 they scored was from an offside, from how they have been trained, when players have to get out of the box, from that ball came the corner, they scored 2-2…so all these things, they make it frustrating. But, the mentality we show from the first game till now is good. Also, with 10 men last week we got to a 2-1 and tried to hold on to the last minute and then to lose on an own-goal is just bad luck. But overall, the atmosphere and conviction to work is 100%.”

Jessel, Rakip And Injury Concerns

Kerala Blasters have faced a host of injuries this season and that has created problems for Eelco Schattorie in his team selection. "For each of the 13 games in a row, I haven't been sure of who's going to play even two days before the game." However, he also explained how that is helping the individual players step up and perform well for the team. "We have Jessel who has played in the Goa Pro League in the last two years. He has stepped up into the ISL and done a fantastic job. Moreover, Jessel and Rakip are our only two players who have started all the 13 games this season." [KH_ADWORDS type="4" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] "That shows the inconsistency in the lineup and that makes it difficult for the coach. But, I am a positive person and any challenge that is put in front of me, I face it. We have proven that at times, but also we need luck. Perhaps in context with the referees' bloopers."

Chances Of Playoffs

Further, Eelco Schattorie also spoke on his side's chances of making it to the playoffs. "Nothing's decided yet and there is still a chance. But, I don't focus on results. I instead focus on the process. If the process is good, results will come." Speaking about the fans' support the 48-year-old said, "I get a lot of messages from the fans saying they want me to stay at the club next season because they feel there is improvement at many levels. I feel very honoured for that." "It is not easy for a club who haven't done very well in two seasons to transform that right away. Even at the highest level you look at Manchester United, they are struggling. Its not just about hiring a coach and players, there are more dynamics involved in play and they take time."

On FC Goa

When asked about the chances his side stand when they face FC Goa, Eelco Schattorie said, "FC Goa are a team that like to play football, the way I like to. As a team, they play possession-based football and also have the creative quality in midfield to put the ball forward." "For me, FC Goa are the best team right now. On the other hand, when you look at us, we also have the players to help us be at that level, unfortunately they are not fit at the moment." [KH_ADWORDS type="2" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] "Its going to be a game between two teams who like to entertain the crowd and its going to be beautiful," added Eelco Schattorie.

Jessel On Playing In Goa & Other Challenges

Jessel Carneiro spoke about his rapport with the coach and playing in front of his home fans. He remarked, “I have developed a lot with this coach. He tells me what to do and I try to give my best. About the home fans, it’s just my family where I like to play, they will see me, that’s it.” "When I moved here, I knew there is going to be good competition for a place in the team. But, I was very focused on playing at the highest level and I was ready for the challenge." "While in the Goa Pro League, I had the opportunity to play with the likes of great players like Odafa (Okolie) and Beto. I learned and grew playing with them."

Team News

Seityasen Singh was not in the squad for the last match, but will be available tomorrow. Centre-back Gianni Zuiverloon is a doubt for the game. Rahul KP, Prasanth Karuthadathkuni might be the other absentees. Abdul Hakku will miss this match due to the red card that he was shown against Jamshedpur FC.

Probable Lineup

Rehenesh, Rakip, Gaikwad, Drobarov, Carneiro, Arques, Gning, Sahal, Narzary, Messsi Bouli, Ogbeche. [KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News | Article Continues Below"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

Head-to-Head

Kerala Blasters and FC Goa have played 11 matches against each other so far. Goa have emerged victorious in seven games whereas Blasters managed to triumph over them thrice. One match has ended in a draw.

Broadcast

The game will commence from 7:30 PM IST on Saturday evening. It will be telecast live on Star Sports 1 and Star Sports 1 HD. It will also be available to stream on Hotstar and Jio TV.