Anirudh Thapa: Edwin Vanspaul had an outstanding game against ATK

The Chennaiyin FC midfielder registered two assists against ATK on Sunday night.

Chennaiyin FC continued their storming run, as they defeated ATK 1-3 in Kolkata in a crucial Indian Super League clash on Sunday. Following the win, Chennaiyin midfielder Anirudh Thapa spoke regarding the match in the mixed zone.

Ever since Owen Coyle's arrival, the Marina Machans have undergone a massive overhaul in terms of performances in every department. Thapa was quizzed about the changes Coyle brought in, the India international was quick to point out the differences.

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"He did not change much, as the whole of the squad was the same. What he brought in was positivity. We were lacking confidence, so he brought in that. The training intensity was increased then. Also, what he did with his assistant Sandy (Stewart) was very good, as he used to talk with each and every player. The main thing was positivity, especially when the team was not doing well in the first half of the season everyone was down. So, after coming and doing a great job every player is giving their best."

Anirudh Thapa was influential in the middle of the park with his sleek passing and tireless work-rate. When questioned about what exactly made his team prevail over a high-flying ATK side, he added, "We had our plans and the coach made us watch their videos in the team meeting. We executed it well and we got the three points. We saw their positive as well as negative points. That's why we scored an early goal which gave us the confidence. It is good that we got three points also."

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The 22-year-old midfielder registered two assists against ATK on Sunday night. Speaking about which, Anirudh Thapa mainly hailed the team spirit and unity of his side. "It is a team game, obviously, the team played well. We played as a unit and that's a big thing. We got the three points which we came for and that's all we wanted," he quipped.

With this win, the Marina Machans are currently in fifth position with 25 points, just a point behind Mumbai City. However, Chennaiyin FC have a match in hand and winning the next two matches against the Islanders and NorthEast United will give them the edge to clinch the fourth position in the playoffs.

"The motivation is always high, mainly after the coach's arrival. We need to take points from the last two games, as we chase for the fourth position along with Mumbai. So, we go with our positive mindset and hope to get three points," the midfielder added.

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Anirudh Thapa also spoke about his midfield partner Edwin Sydney Vanspaul, who had a fantastic game and was adjudged the Player of the Match. Vanspaul's tireless work-ethic and exceptional ball recycling skills allowed Rafael Crivellaro and Thapa to play more freely. The youngster also pointed out how Vanspaul is capable of playing in multiple positions and reads the game well.

"Obviously Edwin is a great player. He has played in many positions before. He can read the game well and it is an advantage for all of us with me also, but especially with Rafa (Crivellaro), as he likes to play more upfront with freedom. We knew it would be tight in the middle, so we kept ourselves compact. Edwin had an outstanding game and rightfully won the Hero of the Match."