Bengaluru FC put up a resolute all-round performance to cruise to a 3-0 triumph over Chennaiyin FC on Sunday to move to the fourth spot on the Indian Super League (ISL) table.
The defending champion rode on goals from Erik Paartalu, Sunil Chhetri and Semboi Haokip to secure its first win of the ISL 2019 season.
Here are some of the major talking points from the Bengaluru FC vs Chennaiyin FC game, including John Gregory's possible resignation
Gregory on his way out?
Chennaiyin FC has endured a torrid start to the season that has seen the side drop points in all four of its opening matches. And making matters worse is the fact that his team hasn't been able to score a single goal in its one draw and three losses.
It appears that Gregory, who was set to leave at the end of last season but later stayed on for Chennaiyin FC's AFC Cup campaign, might well be on his way out.
Talking post the game, the Englishman said: "This is my third year and it is not easy. I have never worked so hard in my life and it might be time for someone else to take over. Frankly, this is the worst I have felt in my time here. In my opinion the club comes first and we have to do what's best for the club."
Listen in to the full audio from the post-match press conference here
Bengaluru's attack comes good
Bengaluru FC's famed attack featuring the likes of Sunil Chhetri, Udanta Singh, Ashique Kuruniyan and Raphael Augusto had a rather mute start to ISL 2019 as the side managed only one goal in three games. However, in what would be major relief to coach Carles Cuadrat, the attack came good when it mattered the most on Sunday.
Chhetri got his name on the scoresheet courtesy of a sublime half-volley, while Udanta remained a constant terror on the right. Ashique put in a strong shift and tracked back to contribute to defence as well, while Augusto impressed with his silken play. Augusto, who was playing against his former club Chennaiyin FC for the first time since his transfer, was instrumental as he crafted the assist that led to Chhetri's goal.
Chennaiyin's defensive woes continue
Chennaiyin FC's defence was no match for Bengaluru FC's attack. Period. Erik Paaratlu was left completely unmarked for the home side's opening goal, while Eli Sabia and Lucian Goian failed to track back in time to mark Chhetri for the second.
However, the defensive frailties were further highlighted when Haokip bagged the third and final goal. The lanky youngster outmuscled the burly Sabia and sneaked between him and goalkeeper Vishal Kaith to score. And he went on to wrestle his way past his defender again a couple of minutes later, but Kaith was more alert this time.
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