Bengaluru FC climbed to the top of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 table with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over NorthEast United FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Juanan broke the deadlock with his header before Marcinho equalised from the spot for the Highlanders, but it was Sunil Chhetri’s second-half strike that secured optimum points for the Blues. Juanan was adjudged the ‘Hero of the Match’ for his sturdy defensive display, coupled with his maiden Hero ISL goal. Post a gruelling 90 minutes, the Spaniard caught up with indiansuperleague.com to share his views on the encounter. Here are the excerpts.

How does it feel to go to the top of the table?

It feels very good. I am very happy because of the three points. The other team played very hard as well. These three points are very important and we want to continue this form so that we stay in the top four. I think the team played very well to get maximum points. I am also very happy because I scored my first goal. But more important than the goal are these three points.

Take us through the moment when you scored the goal?

Yes, it was a very good cross from Edu (Garcia) and it became more easy for me because I only had to touch it (with my head). But it was very important as it led to the three points.

What advantage does Bengaluru have over other teams in terms of physicality and set-pieces?

I think set-pieces are very important in games and the team really trains hard. Almost 50% of our goals have come from set-pieces, and this team is training very hard because it is very important.

What is your take on NorthEast’s fightback at the end?

This team (NorthEast) played very hard, as you could see in the game.

Do you think Bengaluru can make it to the playoffs?

We will continue playing the way we are and take the upcoming games one by one. When we finish the league stage, we will see. But now we need to continue with the same mentality.