ISL 2023-24: We were by far the better team against Hyderabad FC: Owen Coyle after 1-0 win

Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle feels his team was by far better than Hyderabad FC after 1-0 win at the GMC Balayogi Stadium in Hyderabad on Monday. Connor Sheilds scored the only goal of the match in the seventh minute to give three crucial points to the Marina Machans.

Chennayin FC took two shots on target but only had 32% of possession. But the visitors were able to grab their chance early into the game to put themselves in front.

“I think we were by far the better team, scored a great goal and could have scored three or four. We restricted Hyderabad FC to very few openings,” Coyle said at the post-match press conference.

“We fully deserved the three points which we have been threatening to do a few times this season,” he added.

The gaffer was also happy with their defensive performance and feels his boys were outstanding against the Nizams.

“I thought our defence stood up to some very good players. They have a big goal threat with Moya, Felipe and Joao Victor who has been one of the best players in the league. I thought our boys were outstanding, I can’t recall too many chances for Hyderabad FC,” he said.

Coyle added his team deserved to win after a fine performance while playing away from home, which is never easy in the ISL.

“Before this game, we have had more crosses into the box than any other team, so we know we are a good side and it was important to get that win,” he said.

“It’s difficult to come away from home and win in the ISL and we were worthy of that win,” he added.

The Scot added his job is to improve the players and he is trying to get the best out of his players.

“It’s a new group, I have inherited a lot of these players and it’s my job to improve them. We now go into three home games, so we should look to capitalise on that,” he concluded.

Chennaiyin FC will next play against Punjab FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai on Sunday.