We are solid but we have not got enough goals-Coppell

The Englishman is keen to build on his team's recent good form.

Steve Coppell, head coach of Kerala Blaster will be looking to upset the struggling hosts when his side will play FC Goa in the Indian Super League at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Monday. Coppell who has managed heavyweight teams like Crystal Palace, Reading and Manchester City was appointed head coach by the Blasters after a poor performance in the last season with Peter Taylor, Trevor Morgan and Terry Phelan. But, the British coach has also failed to impress with his tactics as they have just 5 points from same numbers of matches. However Blasters have conceded just three goals in this edition of the ISL, the joint lowest alongside NorthEast United FC. In fact, Kerala Blasters have conceded just one goal in their last three matches, thanks to defensive solidity provided by players like Aaron Hughes, Cedric Hengbart and Sandesh Jhingan. Blasters manager Coppell said, “It was not a conscious decision to focus only on the defense while building this team. I think we are solid, well-organized but we have not got enough goals.” “I think both the teams have had a rough start in terms of results but all the past games played were really close, ” he added. Coppell also believes that FC Goa will be a strong team on the field and it will be difficult to beat them on their own turf. When asked about their chances of winning against the Guars, the British tactician said, “It will be an open game. Both teams want to win and I don’t think there is a question of losing. Both want to win and you can only win when you go forward. I know FC Goa well. They are at home and it’s their responsibility to take the game to us,” He postulates that players who are resilient, strong physically and mentally and who can play 14 matches in 8 weeks can lead his side to success in this league. “We are here to do our job and the job is to win a football match, not to enjoy beautiful Goa, ” warned Coppell before concluding the media interaction. Photo © ISL Media