We played a complete match, believes SCEB coach Mario Rivera

The Red and Gold Brigade continue to remain in 10th position.

Bad luck was on Mario Rivera’s side for the most part, as a spirited performance from SC East Bengal wasn’t enough to bag a point or three against Kerala Blasters. A solitary header from Enes Sipovic was enough to hand the Blasters the points. The Kolkata-based side have three more matches to go and can at best hope for a mid-table finish.

Here’s what head coach Mario Rivera thought after tonight’s closely-contested defeat:

A complete performance

From the moment they conceded, SC East Bengal were looking to get back on level terms. “We defended well, attacked well and created chances. We played a complete match. But, one set-piece can make you lose the game. That’s football,” Rivera said honestly.

On absence of Arindam Bhattacharya, Darren Sidoel & Marcelo Ribeiro

The Spaniard made six changes to his starting XI, which included some notable absentees. “Marcelo was injured in the last match. For Arindam and Darren, they are down with fever and sick. They were supposed to be in today’s plans, but they are in their hotel rooms in isolation,” the coach informed.

“It’s a pity as we had planned the match a different way, but the players who came in played really well,” Rivera added.

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Impressed with Rahul Paswan

Youngster Rahul Paswan was handed his ISL debut and he seems to have impressed his coach. “I am really happy because it is difficult to play in ISL. He had his movement and took touches with great precision. I think it’s not only good for East Bengal, but for Indian football that we have such a talent here,” lauded Rivera.

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A week’s time to prepare

SCEB face top half Mumbai City FC in their next fixture, which is a good seven days later. The coach was quizzed on his plan for the upcoming week and remaining matches.

“Yes, it’s the same plan, we will try to win the next match. We will come back stronger and try to play the way we did tonight,” the coach signed off.

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