Chennai: Disappointed and frustrated after losing two games on the trot, player-manager of Kerala Blasters FC, David James, believes his team lacked the killer instinct.
Kerala are languishing at the bottom of the table having lost both their games so far in the inaugural season of the Indian Super League. They went down to Northeast United FC 1-0 in their tournament opener and their latest defeat came on Tuesday against Chennaiyin FC in the Southern derby which they lost 1-2.
James, a former England goalkeeper, said he will need to change the composition of the team that will face Atletico de Kolkata in yet another away fixture on October 26.
"Difficult to accept defeat given we created more chances [against Chennai] and had more possession. Even more frustrating as a manager is too see both goals being conceded off set-pieces. We need to be more focused," said the 44-year-old former Liverpool and Manchester City goalie after losing to Chennaiyin FC.
"But on a positive note, I am happy with the way we played, given the lack of training this week. [But] That finishing touch is lacking, that sharpness. But again, it was a decent game of football. Everyone watching at home would've enjoyed it. Unfortunately, we end another away fixture licking our wounds," James said.
The Englishman said his team needs a serious rebuilding after two away defeats. But he also acknowledged the fact that they played well in both the games and a win was around the corner.
"It's a fact of life. You have to win games to win championships. This is my second press conference after losing a game. It is frustrating to stand at my goalpost and see my side attacking the opposition and the ball not finding the back of the net. But as a manager I tell myself that there must be something we are doing right to be on that side of the pitch.
"I think they [Chennaiyin FC] were lucky. Today we created more chances than Chennaiyin FC did. We were the away team and the pressure was on us somewhat. It's frustrating we didn't convert our chances. It doesn't help when [Bernard] Mendy scores goals like that either. I am frustrated with the defeat but happy with the approach we had to the game."
The Chennai outfit got the lead through their Brazilian import Elano Blumer via a penalty kick before Iain Hume came up with the equaliser for Kerala in the 50th minute.
But 13 minutes later, former Hull City wingback Mendy scored the winner through a stunning bicycle kick to set up Chennai's victory at home. French striker Mendy's overhead kick became the talk of the town and James too reserved high praise for him.
"I don't think anyone had anticipated him to kick it like that. It was a good finish into the top corner. Hats off to him as a moment of individual brilliance was justified by that finish. His effort was probably the goal of the month,"he said.
James also said there will be changes for the Kolkata game. "To be honest, the lack of training hurts because that would've helped me make a more educated choice on the team and any changes therein. There will be changes for the Kolkata game. There are 29 players and everyone will get a chance."
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