SC East Bengal’s ISL journey of this season almost ends after today’s draw against Hyderabad FC. The defensive flaws of SC East Bengal at the death has haunted them again.
Hyderabad FC made two changes in this game. Liston Colaco and Joel Chianese came in the team for Mohammed Yasir and Fran Sandaza. SC East Bengal came up with the same team that beat Jamshedpur FC a few days back.
Both teams were not in their best from the best. Both have created enough chances but failed to break the deadlock. SC East Bengal goalkeeper Subrata Paul was excellent today. SC East Bengal took the lead after a blistering counter-attack by Bright Enobakhare. But SC east Bengal defence switched off again at the last moment as Hyderabad FC scored the equalizer to took a point from this game.
After the match, SC East Bengal coach Tony Grant said, “Two points taken away from us tonight. It is going to be tough to make it to the playoffs. We set the team up at the exact same formation as the game as JFC, it was the first time we had the opportunity to do that.”
Hyderabad FC manager Manuel Marquez said, “I am happy. I try to be objective. In first half we had more chances. In second half they scored. Great goal from Bright. After that it is a clear penalty in my watch. I think most of the draws, we had to have the game finished, like the game against Odisha. A lot of draws we had the control, but I am very happy because it not easy. Three games to play and we are in the fight for the top four. We are satisfied and proud of the players.”
Hyderabad FC is in the 3rd position with 24 points from first 17 matches while SC East Bengal is at 9th with 17 points playing the same number of matches. It is quite impossible for SC East Bengal to qualify for the play-offs. The Red and Golds want to end the season on a good note winning the last three games of the season.
