ISL 2017-18: Sergio Lobera - We are loyal to our style of play

FC Goa coach Sergio Lobera was clearly a happy man after his side beat David James’ Kerala Blasters at their own den by 2-1 in an Indian Super League (ISL) clash.

The Spaniard was impressed by the tactical nous shown by his men at vital moments of the game. “You need to be good in all aspects. There are moments in the game where we tactically read the game very well,” he said at the post-match press conference.

It was Edu Bedia’s header from a corner that gave the visitors all three points in the match and Lobera attributed it to their work on set-pieces.

“In games like this, set pieces are very important. We have been practicing set pieces for a while now,” he stated.

The Goa based side’s propensity to build from the back could have cost them big time after a dreadful kick from their custodian Kattimani led to Kerala’s equalizing goal on the night but Lobera fully defended the playing style and the player.

“We are loyal to our style of play. We know the style carries risks. But I am very proud of our players. We try to play out from the back and sometimes we are bound to see a few errors. And today, playing out from the back meant that Kerala were tired in the attack. This is what happened in the second half,” he said.

“I am happy with the performance of my entire team. The players always do what the coach asks of them. The players believe in the system,” Lobera added.

There were vociferous appeals from the home side for a penalty when CK Vineeth went down under Mohamed Ali’s challenge. When asked if he thought it was a spot-kick, Lobera replied, “I haven't had the chance to see the replay so I cannot give an opinion.”

Midfield Ahmed Jahou has been a force for the Goan side throughout the league but the Lobera stated that the game was all about teamwork and not about any individual.

“For me, all the players on my team are the best. But there are certain players who shine at an individual level. It is because of the work that the team puts in. For Coro to be top goalscorer, it is because he has a team behind him to create chances. Jahouh also falls in the same category,” he said before signing off.