We have to be better in possession, demands Simon Grayson

The tactician also commented on the form of goalkeeper Gupreet Singh Sandhu.

Bengaluru FC were curtailed by Chennaiyin FC in an entertaining 1-1 draw. Both teams had scores of chances to seal the game but it was a tale of three keepers. Gurpreet put in an assured performance and while Chennaiyin's regular number one Debjit Majumdar was sent off, Iranian defender Vafa Hakhamaneshi kept the Blues at bay after shifting between the sticks. Hyderabad FC trounced NorthEast United 3-0 away from home, with goals from Bartholomew Ogbeche, Halicharan Narzary, and Borja Herrera. The Nizams will keenly await the return of football and fans at the Gachibowli. Simon Grayson and Sandesh Jhingan were present at the pre-match press conference at the Kanteerava Stadium ahead of the ISL games between the two sides. Here are their thoughts.

Difference between playing the same opposition in the Durand Cup and the league

Bengaluru FC last played Hyderabad FC in the Durand Cup semi-final, a closely fought match in which BFC triumphed 1-0. Coach Simon Grayson said, “Every game is going to be different when compared to the Durand Cup. On that particular occasion, they were the better team. From us scoring to getting through to the final, they completely dominated the game. Sometimes we have to win football matches differently and we defended really well. We have to come up with something different to beat Hyderabad in the league. You have to have different qualities and they are a strong team.”

Sivasakthi’s development as a player

21-year-old Sivasakthi has impressed since the start of this season, and also supplied a delicious trivela assist for Roy Krishna’s headed goal in the game against Chennaiyin. Coach Grayson said, “You cannot judge on only the goal-scoring aspect, you must have assists and show a good attitude. Siva did that and we are delighted to see that. He knows that he has a lot of work to do both in possession and out of possession but what he is showing is how talented a player he can be by working hard.”

Playing in away atmospheres

Simon Grayson had earlier mentioned that he relied on experienced Indian players to provide him with information on away matchday experiences. He answered, “Most of our players understand and know how it is like to play in Hyderabad. Every away game for me is going to be something new: different environments, different atmospheres, and different situations. I am learning how close the supporters are, the intensity to expect, and the rivalry. It’s going to be a tough game for us but it is a challenge we are looking forward to.”

“Everyone expected Chennai to come out of the blocks and dominate us but we started well, we dominated the first 15 minutes and silenced the crowd. The momentum swung and they scored at a good time. We have to deal with such situations. No team has dominated a game from the first whistle till the last, great example was Kerala Blasters against ATK Mohun Bagan. Kerala dominated ATK but ended up losing 5-2. You have to manage certain situations and the game at particular times.”

Gurpreet’s brilliant form

Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu has started the season with a string of unbelievable saves and commanding collections. Sandesh Jhingan spoke highly of Gurpreet, who has made 94 appearances for the Blues across 5 seasons. Jhingan said, “He is a top goalkeeper and has proven his worth. I played with him in the national team and we have a good understanding with each other. Helps that off the field also we have good communication. His kicking and shot-stopping is world class and that is why he is one of the best keepers in Asia.”

Where do you think this game will be won or lost

Hyderabad are sitting pretty on the top of the league table with one win and a draw, despite being tied on points with 3 other teams. They have a superior goal difference of 3 and have scored 6 goals already in their 2 matches. Coach simon Grayson felt that “The game will be won or lost in both boxes. You defend your 18-yard box really really well and when we get the ball, we have to do well in the top end of the pitch and score goals.

"If we analyze the games so far, we have looked solid defensively and the system has worked. In possession, we have to be better as a team. Bit more creativity in keeping hold of the ball and playing those passes that ask questions to the opposition defenders. If you give good players opportunities they will punish you. I am trying to get the balance of our team based on being strong defensively."

How important has Sandesh’s signing been?

Sandesh re-joined Bengaluru FC, serving as an experienced Indian in defence. He has been an integral part of the back 3 with Alan Costa and Jovanovic. Coach Simon Grayson answered, “When I spoke to Mandar, the recruitment focus was on experience within the group. We saw Roy come up on the top end and we felt that with the different types of players we have in defence along with a couple of youngsters, getting an experienced Indian who has played in the league was vital. It was quite easy to get the deal done and his experience rubs off on Alan and Alek as well.”

Jhingan feels that he is a more well-rounded player since his last stint with the club. He answered, “The weather has stayed the same in the city. Last time there was a different coach and it was a different period. One of the biggest reasons I came now is the mentality of the club. The DNA of this club is to win trophies and whoever you meet in the club is just about trophies. I came back, found the same atmosphere and love it. Now, I have a different role as I am more experienced. I just want to keep getting better as a team and as an individual.”

Halicharan Narzary’s goal threat

Hyderabad FC’s Halicharan Narzary has been in scintillating form this season, having already notched up 2 goals and an assist in 2 appearances. Coach Grayson said, “It does not matter which individual you mention, we want to keep clean sheets. We have to try and stop Victor getting on the ball because he is a key player too. Our team does not concentrate on one player; we have to work as a unit and prevent easy scoring opportunities for the opposition. We certainly respect every player that play against us and we have to win our individual battles. You should make sure that you come out on top in those and say to your mates that I kept XYZ quiet and be proud, because that is what you are paid to do.”

The ISL returns to Hyderabad and the fans will be craving a taste of their team‘s return to the Gachibowli Stadium. The league winners will no doubt get a champions’ welcome. BFC should ensure that they do not drop points on the road.

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