Super Cup 2019: John Gregory bemoans schedule after Chennaiyin FC's final loss

FC Goa coach Sergio Lobera, on the other hand, was happy to win the first trophy of his tenure.

Jon Gregory's side dominated the first half without a breakthrough before Goa struck the decisive goals in the second half.

Chennaiyin FC boss John Gregory lamented his side’s gruelling fixture congestion after its 2-1 loss to FC Goa in the Super Cup final here on Saturday.

Gregory’s men have been involved in the AFC Cup and the Super Cup in the last fortnight shuttling between Ahmedabad (home base for AFC Cup) and Bhubaneswar, playing five matches in total.

“They (Chennaiyin players) gave everything which is all you ask as a coach. We are disappointed we didn't manage to win the game. We had good opportunities to have scored in the first half and we didn't take them," said Gregory.

READ | FC Goa overcomes Chennaiyin in thrilling final to win first title

"After Rapha's (Augusto) equaliser, I thought we would be the only winners. But it's our fourth game in 10 days, do the math. It's a ridiculous schedule for us; it was evident for us,” the Englishman said, while having words of praise for his opposite number Sergio Lobera and Goa for the cup win.

Goa asserted control in the second half after Chennaiyin’s bright start in the opening 45 minutes. Chennaiyin was punished for failing to take its chances by Ferran Corominas and Brandon Fernandes to tilt the game in Goa’s favour.

Gregory added, “We got little erratic. They came at us on both wings. Jackichand and Seriton had a good understanding down our left side. Young Jerry (Lalrinzuala) has just come back into the team and the match against ATK (semifinals) took a look out of him.

"(Dhanpal) Ganesh has now played three matches in six days and we looked a bit tired. Both of them are at it every game they play and their lack match fitness showed today.”

Goa coach Lobera, who led his team to the final of the Indian Super League last month, was happy to win the first trophy of his tenure.

“It's an important trophy for us this season to gain the respect and being admired by everyone. We had a chance to win two trophies, but in the end, we have only one. Today, I am very happy for the work done by all my players and for the support of the fans,” said the Spaniard.

Corominas, who was voted player of the tournament for his five goals, was overwhelmed with emotions in the post-match press conference.

“I am very happy and I am very emotional right now. I am trying to hold my tears back. All the people are supporting us and we have the backing of our families through this period. Personally, it's (Super Cup) very important for me,” the ISL’s all-time leading goal-scorer said.