ISL 2019-20 | Our performance showed quality of squad, says Sergio Lobera

Despite being a home fixture, scoring three goals against Chennaiyin, who have arguably one of the best defences in the league, was always going to be a steep task. And it became doubly difficult when Goa were missing three of their creative midfielders. 

Lobera was forced to start with Brandon Fernandes and Lenny Rodrigues in the midfield with Jackichand Singh being asked to drift out from the midfield to the flanks from time to time. It was a difficult strategy to execute but the Gaurs pulled it off almost effortlessly, making their manager proud.

"These players were injured and not at 100 per cent. So, it was not possible for them to play today. We have four matches in two weeks and it was necessary to reduce the risk. I hope I can use them in the next match at home against Bengaluru,” said Lobera in the post-match press conference, reported ISL website.

“Today’s changes were compulsory. I am very proud of my players. The performance today shows the quality of the squad. Before the match, it was a challenge to prove that this lot is a very competitive team that rises above individuals and I am very happy with the result,” he added.

The three goals came from Seiminlen Doungel, Ferran Corominas, and Carlos Pena as the hosts ran a rout at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Wednesday. However, none could deny the crucial role played by Manvir Singh, who got an assist for the first goal starting alongside Coro. And the coach appreciated the same.

“Manvir played very well. Whenever he gets the opportunity, he shows me he can play well, not just today. He has just one problem – the competition for his position in the team is very high. We have Corominas in the same position. Today we tried both of them together and it worked well. The most important thing is the team. If the team works well, individuals work better too,” he added.