East Bengal FC head coach Bino George was pleased with youngsters’ performance despite a 0-4 loss against NorthEast United FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong in the ongoing Indian Super League on Saturday.
Three East Bengal players’ made their debut in the game and George was happy that the young lads got the much-needed game time.
Meanwhile, after a goalless first half, Nestor Albiach scored for the Highlanders in the 59th minute. Subsequently, Alaaeddine Ajaraie scored a brace whereas Mohammed Bemammer scored in the 86th minute.
“Today, you know, three of the players were in their debut match, and most of them just got some more game time. So I’m happy with their performance in the first half,” Bino George said during the post-match press conference.
“But second half, after some silly mistake, we conceded a goal and after that, we all know what happened. But I’m happy with the performance and the fact that they also now know how to play against tough teams and they have gained some experience,” he added.
Speaking about the performance of Cleiton Silva, one of the most experienced players in their squad, he replied, “Cleiton was injured. He is recovering from an injury last last week, yet he trained with the team. So he said to us that he wants to help the boys because in the front he can lead, and show them how to follow, how to work out. So, he can help the boys and we are happy for his performance, especially since NorthEast United FC played with a full squad today.”
Speaking about the lack of experience in the team, the assistant coach said, “Five or six players were playing in the ISL for the first time. We had only one foreigner playing today. And they had a full squad, including all foreigners, who played. So we have no over-confidence.”
“We want to give chances to those who have not played enough match time in the ISL so far. We wanted to help them, we wanted to build the team up for the future,” he added.
This was East Bengal FC’s last match of the season and they would look to come up with an improved show in the next edition.
