SC East Bengal displayed great grit against Chennaiyin FC in their latest Indian Super League match. The Red and Golds came from behind to salvage a point against the Marina Machans. Goals from Darren Sidoel and Lalrinliana Hnamte helped Mario Rivera’s men to come back from two goals down to secure a draw.
It was one of the better matches for SC East Bengal as they showed great spirit throughout the game despite being down they kept pushing forward and were duly rewarded with a draw. However head coach Mario Rivera feels that the result is unfair. The Spaniard believes that his team were and deserved the win against Chennaiyin FC.
“Very unfair. We deserved to win, very clearly,” Rivera opined.
“Yes, we had a very good second half. SC East Bengal were the team who were playing. We had a high pace to our game and we created a lot of chances with the intention of winning. It was an amazing second half,” the Spanish coach continued.
It was a night that belonged to the SC East Bengal midfielder Sidoel and Hnamte. Both of them were on the scoresheet as the Red and Golds secured a crucial draw. Rivera highlighted how he is happy with the team and also revealed that he is happy for Hnamte who was sad after missing a clear chance in the derby.
“Maybe. I am happy with the whole team, and I am glad Hnamte scored. He missed a clear chance in the derby and was disheartened. He is a very nice person and someone who goes on to improve his game.”
“I’m happy for Darren too, as he proved his naysayers wrong. I have seen his free-kick action when he was in Ajax and I am glad for him,” added a delighted Rivera.
Amidst their tough season, Hira Mondal has been their most consistent player this season. But it was probably a bad day at the office for the defender as he conceded a cheap own goal. But Rivera still motivated the defender and points out how Mondal needs to learn and grow more.
“He is a young player. He needs to learn some things and is willing to do so. I feel he is a very interesting player for Indian football and has a very good future,” Rivera placed his trust in Mondal.
SC East Bengal will next face Odisha FC in the Indian Super League on the 7th of February and will aim to gain more results and climb up the points table.
