Chennaiyin FC manager John Gregory was full of praise for striker Jeje Lalpekhlua after his brace – the first of which was his first in four matches – ensured a victory for the host in a five-goal thriller against defending champion ATK.
“We should take a lot of credit for our fight. We weren’t happy to accept one point, and the team pushed for the winner till the end. The winning goal was the best of the lot for me. I am glad for Jeje to shut everyone up,” said the Englishman.
The coach explained the change in role for the 26-year-old striker as compared to his previous seasons under Marco Materazzi. “He was an out and out striker for Marco. We make him work a little bit harder which is not easy. He held the ball up well and he was rewarded,” said Gregory.
Augusto ‘not 100 percent’ fit
On resting Raphael Augusto, Gregory said, “He is not 100 percent (fit). We thought this was a good game to give him a rest, we have Mumbai City FC on Sunday. He will be in contention after a couple of days’ rest.”
The losing manager on the night, Teddy Sheringham, was glad to have marquee signing Robbie Keane back on the field from an injury. The striker went onto assist ATK’s second goal with a precise through ball. “Nice to have Robbie back. Wanted him to get on the pitch and make things happen and he did just that,” said the former Manchester United forward.
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