Manolo Diaz opens up on SCEB's mistakes after Kolkata Derby defeat

The Mariners clinched an easy 3-0 victory over the Red and Gold Brigade.

It wasn’t meant to be for Manolo Diaz and his men in their first Kolkata derby of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 season. ATK Mohun Bagan dominated the game in almost every aspect. They were clinical in their finishing and their defence was hardly bothered. It was Antonio Perosevic’s responsibility to lead the attacking line for SC East Bengal, after Diaz made four changes to the starting XI. But after three quick-fire goals from the Mariners, a comeback seemed quite improbable.

As a result, the Red and Gold brigade are yet to register their first taste victory of the season.

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What went wrong?

SC East Bengal’s back-three were in shambles throughout the game. After a good, steady start, the Mariners killed the game with three quick-fire goals, all of them coming within a span of 11 minutes.

Nothing went right for Manolo Diaz and co afterwards, despite trying their best to salvage something out of the match. “We made a lot of big mistakes. They had a good level and we couldn’t play our game," the Spaniard admitted in the post-match press conference.

Poor midfield performance

Hugo Boumous was once again involved in his team’s strikes on Saturday night. He was too much overbearing for SC East Bengal’s midfield. The likes of Darren Sidoel and Hnamte were not enough to contain his pinpoint passes.

“We gave a lot of space to a player like Boumous. And if we do that, we won’t get chances,” Diaz commented.

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A message for the desolate fans

The Kolkata Derby was a great chance for the fans to experience their maiden victory of the season, but the winless streak continued. “Yes, we understand the feelings of the fans, but there is a big difference between East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan. That is the situation,” Diaz quipped.

Looking forward to clash against Odisha

SC East Bengal face Odisha FC as their next test. Currently sitting at third place on the points table, Kiko Ramirez’s men have had a brilliant start to the season with their 3-1 win against Bengaluru. Manolo Diaz will have to quickly turn things around and decide on a team that will get the job done.

“The competition is such that in three days we go again. We must give our best in the next match,” the 53-year-old concluded.

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