ISL 2021-22: First-half was competitive but we dominated the second period, says Bengaluru FC Udanta Singh

Bengaluru FC winger Udanta Singh stated that the first half was competitive but they dominated the last 45 minutes against NorthEast United in their opening fixture of the ongoing Hero Indian Super League 2021-22 at the GMC Athletic Stadium, Goa on Saturday as they won by 4-2.

The Blues lead by 3-2 after the first half whistle as Cleiton Silva and Jayesh Rane scored for them in the 14th and 42nd minute respectively while Mashoor Shereef scored an own goal in the 22nd minute.

However, Bengaluru dominated the contest completely in the second half. Bengaluru had 69% of the possession and their pass accuracy was 81% as compared to United’s 59%.

“Oh yeah, the first one (was competitive), the first half, they scored, we scored, and they scored again. So, it was very competitive, the first half. So after the third goal, we controlled the game, and in the second half, we dominated the game. So we are looking forward to the next one against Odisha,” said Udanta, after the win over NorthEast United FC.

On the other hand, the Highlanders came up with poor defensive play and their coach Khail Jamil admitted the same after their loss.

“Defensively. We didn’t work well today. Marking was not up to the mark. So they also played well,” said Jamil, during the post-match interview. “We will take a decision on who to play in defence tomorrow. We have three days to prepare for the next game. We will regroup and try and rectify our mistakes,” he added.

Meanwhile, Marco Pezzaiuoli started his coaching stint with Bengaluru FC with a win. The manager added that it was not a perfect game but the win will give them confidence.

“Of course, every time it’s difficult when you start without big games before. And when you win the first game, every time it’s good for confidence. And, of course, it was not the perfect game, but still, it gives confidence,” stated the manager.

Bengaluru FC will take Odisha FC in their next match, on November 25, at the Tilak Maidan, in Vasco.