ISL 2016: Kerala Blasters manager Steve Coppell proud of his team's performance against FC Pune City

The Kerala Blasters secured a vital point in their away game against FC Pune City as both the sides played out an exciting 1-1 draw, with the topsy-turvy encounter providing ample chances for both the sides. Steve Coppell in his post-match press conference applauded his side for their great effort as the Blasters played their second game in 4 days and came out unbeaten in both the tough fixtures.

Coppell lauded his side's grit as he said, "It's a mixed emotion at the moment as it is a little bit of everything as the game can be inferred as two points lost or one point gained. Travelling will take its toll on the players as it demanding physically to play with the same intensity in just three days. We showed great determination in going 1-0 up so early and it is s great effort by the boys as they stood strong against Pune's attacks in the second half."

Kerala score early but are pegged back by Pune

Kerala scored the fastest goal of this season through Cedric Hengbart after earning a corner through some nice footwork from Mohammed Rafi. Pune City equalised through their captain Mohammed Sissoko as he bundled home an effort from the edge of the box after taking a deflection from Kerala's captain Aaron Hughes, who had a relatively decent game barring that cruel deflection.

Coppell continued, "We should have put the game to bed in the second half as Kerala totally controlled the game in the first half. We were unlucky to concede yet another deflected shot as luck does not seem to be favouring us at all. Pune's goalkeeper was magnificent on the night and I am mighty pleased with the performance as playing away in just 3 days is difficult in any league."

Kerala's draw against the hosts took them to the fifth spot in the league table whereas Pune are still at the seventh spot after failing to win any of their three home games. Pune's manager Antonio Habas will be on the touchline for the next home game against Chennaiyin as his suspension got over. Kerala travel again to face struggling Goa as the Blasters can enter the top four if they beat Zico's side.

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