Thangboi Singto: We always believed that we could at least get a draw

The assistant coach reflected on the draw as the Nizams continue their unbeaten streak.

Hyderabad FC pulled off a stellar performance in holding the star-studded ATK Mohun Bagan to a 1-1 draw. Starting the game with only two foreigners, the Nizams played as one unit to pull off one of the most significant performances of the season so far. After trailing by a goal in the second half, Liston Colaco won a penalty after being fouled by Manvir Singh, who had scored for ATKMB earlier. Joao Victor converted to perfection to bring his team level. With this result, Hyderabad climbed up to fifth in the table with a game in hand.

Team Performance

Hyderabad FC were confident of the plans which they had setup against the defending champions and it showed on the pitch. Coming back from one goal down was not easy, but Thangboi Singto’s team did it. “Credit to the boys,” he said. “I think it's about having confidence. You're an ISL player and when you get the chance that's what you have to do,” asserted the assistant coach in the post-match press conference, speaking about the memorable comeback with only two foreigners on the pitch. “We always believed that we could at least get a draw or get a win.”

Getting a point

Hyderabad FC missed their inspirational head coach Manolo Marquez due to suspension, but that could not suppress their spirits. ATKMB are the favourites for the title and getting a point from this fixture is a great achievement for the team. “Very pleased!” started Singto. “As a team, we are motivating everyone. Credit to all the players who played. They have taken their chances.

On Liston Colaco

Liston Colaco was given the opportunity to lead Hyderabad's attack in the absence of their hitman Aridane Santana, who missed out due to injury. The youngster, who has already impressed with his skills and abilities, did not disappoint either. Liston started off the game brightly, also taking a free-kick which narrowly went over the bar. In the 90 minutes, Colaco took a total of six shots, two of which were on target. 

He also won the penalty which Victor converted to level the scores. Speaking about Liston, the assistant coach felt that he still requires improvement. “He needs to learn to be more clinical. As he plays more matches, he will score goals. We are happy with him.”

On Akash Mishra

Akash Mishra got hit on his face by Prabir Das, who missed the ball completely and kicked his opponent. Although the injury looked nasty, the full-back continued to play till the final whistle and was a vital cog in Hyderabad’s defence. “He is a strong lad. Credit to him that he finished the game. The ‘pep-talk’ to him at half-time was ‘we need you, the team needs you’ and he gave his all. We are very very proud of him.”

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