Satisfied with the performance of the team – Manolo Marquez on draw against Chennaiyin FC

FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez was satisfied with the performance of his team after a 2-2 draw against Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai in the Indian Super League on Thursday.

Wilmar Jordan was able to put the Marina Machans in front in the 11th minute. However, Udanta Singh equalised for the Gaurs just before the half time break.

Albanian footballer Armando Sadiku then put the visitors in front after six minutes into the second half. However, Daniel Chima equalised for the home team to help them share a point.

“In terms of efforts, I can’t say anything. I am satisfied with the performance of the team. I know that just a draw is not good but we are facing a strong team. This ISL season is going to be very even,” Marquez said during the post-match press conference.

“We managed most of the game well but Chennaiyin FC are a very good team and after their equaliser, we suffered to keep the point,” he added.

Marquez showered praise on his counterpart, Owen Coyle and predicted that Chennaiyin FC will qualify for the playoffs.

“This Chennaiyin FC team plays more in the style of Owen Coyle. They will be a dangerous team and will qualify for the playoffs. He is a fantastic human being and a coach,” he said.

Meanwhile, Marquez was forced to substitute Borja Herrera and Rowllin Borges due to injury concerns and the Spaniard provided updates on the former.

“Borja was injured during the week. We preferred to start with him. He has had a lot of muscle problems during his career. We don’t know exactly the duration of his injury. Could be one week or one month. I believe injuries are the worst part of football,” he said.

Marquez also provided an update on veteran defender Sandesh Jhinghan, stating he is close to making a comeback.

“Sandesh Jhingan is a very good player. I agree with Igor Stimac that in the Indian national team he is the most difficult player to replace. Not just for his footballing abilities but also for his character,” he said.

“He could have played today but we were forced to make two substitutions due to injuries and the end of the game was still far and we couldn’t risk him. But he will be back soon,” he concluded.