Ivan Vukomanovic feels Kerala Blasters were defensively solid against Goa

The Yellow Army also climbed inside the playoffs spots in the league standings on Sunday evening.

Ivan Vukomanovic and Kerala Blasters extended their unbeaten run in the Indian Super League (ISL) to eight games as they drew against FC Goa on Sunday night. The stalemate also helped the Yellow Army to climb inside the playoffs spots. Although the southerners could not hold onto a two-goal lead, they did well to salvage a point against the Gaurs.

Following the game, Kerala Blasters head coach Ivan Vukomanovic addressed the post-match press conference, speaking about the game, his side's performance and more.

On the end result

The draw helped Kerala Blasters to climb inside the playoffs spots in the table, whereas a win could have resulted in a more stable position inside the top four. Ivan Vukomanovic was asked whether the result was fair and he answered that he felt both sides could leave with a point.

“Both teams scored goals, and the way the game was developing in both halves, I feel both sides can leave with a point. Of course, both teams wanted to win. Our strategy today was to press in the beginning half and score some goals, just how it happened. We are now eight games without defeat so we have to continue building on from here,” he began.

Lack of chances in the second half

FC Goa looked like the more dominant side in the second half, but Kerala was efficient to maintain the score. However, chances were few as Vukomanovic’s men depended on counter-attacks.

“We have to be honest; FC Goa is the side who is dominant against all teams in the league. They have a philosophy of keeping possession and trying to find the openings. I think defensively we were solid, and tried to close the gaps. We wanted to stay organized and focused,” the tactician answered.

Lack of defensive cohesion

The game saw two brilliant goals, coming from Adrian Luna and Edu Bedia on opposite ends. It has been a common sight in this campaign when a curling corner-kick or a long shot ends up as a goal.

“If you play on a very good pitch, and the balls evolve every year, making it difficult for the goalkeeper to catch, it happens. The boys in the league are doing their best and I am proud of my team tonight,” Ivan Vukomanovic lauded.

On January transfers

For the final question of the night, the Kerala Blasters boss was quizzed on the club’s January transfer plans.

“Not at the moment. The management is working on that. I have already said that I believe that they will make good moves, if they are made. For now, nothing’s concrete and we’ll have to see in the coming days,” he signed off.

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