Kerala Blasters head coach David James praised the effort put in by his players in the team's 1-2 loss to Jamshedpur FC at the Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on Wednesday.
Jerry Mawihmingthanga scored the fastest ever goal in Indian Super League (ISL) 22 seconds into the match and Ashim Biswas slotted home at the half-hour mark to ensure three points for the home side. Mark Sifneos' goal in added time proved to be mere consolation for the Blasters.
"It was a lot of travelling but I think we finished the game stronger. What we showed today, even in defeat, is a magnificent effort," said James, who also took a dig at the scheduling of games in the tournament.
Goal
"We (Kerala Blasters) have a tough game coming up. We're not going to win every game. We have played 11 (matches), three teams have only played nine (matches), I am not sure how that works out. That's the nature of the league and we have got to get on with it," said the English coach.
The home side came out of their blocks quickly and surged forwards at will in the early stages of the game. The early goal by Jerry pushed the visitors onto the backfoot.
"Jamshedpur have shown in the last couple of games that their game has changed. They have got quality on their side, bringing Wellington (Priori) in. Conceding a goal in 24 seconds doesn't help your preparation for the match," rued the former Liverpool FC goalkeeper.
To make things worse, Kerala Blasters' new midfield signing Keziron Kizito injured his shoulder just before half-time and had to be replaced.
"I will have to speak to the doctor and the physio staff but he has been a soldier for us," concluded David James.
.jpg?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=640&quality=60)
.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=640&quality=60)
