"Fair draw," says Manolo Marquez after draw against Jamshedpur FC

The Spaniard also praised Akash Mishra for his performance in the match.

Hyderabad FC shared points with Jamshedpur FC as their match at the Tilak Maidan ended in a goalless draw. This is Hyderabad’s third draw in a row and they continue to stay at the fourth spot in the league table. Although both teams had their fair share of chances in the game, Hyderabad head coach Manolo Marquez said, “We were closer to win the game than them,” he said in the post-match press conference.

The Result

It was once again a tale of missed chances for Hyderabad FC which cost them points. Marquez though was happy that his team are creating clear chances. “I think that we had one very clear chance from Joel (Chiannese) in the beginning of the game. it's good to have clear chances and I am satisfied with how we played in the first half,” said the Spaniard.

Giving credit to the opposotion for their performances, Manolo Marquez further added, “I think the second half was more equal, the style of Jamshedpur FC is difficult to adapt in some moments. I think the draw can be fair.”

Proud of performance

When quizzed about whether it was the opposition defence who had an excellent game or if it was his attackers who could have done more, Manolo Marquez came up with a mixed answer. “It's 50-50. They have a very good team. But, I feel I am satisfied with the team as everyday is not the same,” said Marquez. He added, “Today, we finished the game better than other games and I am proud of the game.”

Playoffs Race

Today’s result marked the third consecutive draw for Hyderabad, something which might be a cause of worry for any coach. But, Manolo Marquez kept calm and was happy to take the positives.

Comparing the team’s current run with the opening matches, the Spaniard said, “Two wins in three draws in January, the same as our first five games in the league. I think at this moment it's very difficult to win a game.” He further added that at the moment no team is out of the playoffs race.

Aridane Santana playing deeper

Aridane Santana dropped deep and took up the role of the creator. When asked whether it was a plan from the team, Manolo Marquez replied positively. "Yes, normally he attacks the ball, but today he was man-to-man with (Steophen) Eze."

Akash Mishra's performance

Akash Mishra once again grabbed the limelight with his performance in both defence and attack. The young left-back charged down the flank in the 81st minute and almost went on to score the deciding goal. Praising the Indian youngster, Marquez stated, “For me, Akash will be the left-back for the Indian national team.

"He is a great young player; he listens to all the things the staff says to him. Of course he has to improve, but he will be in the national team, I wish,” the tactician concluded.

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