East Bengal FC assistant coach Bino George was pleased with the young players earning game time even as the Red and Gold brigade were swept 4-0 by NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday.

The match started relatively slow, with both sides staying quiet, ending half-time with no goals scored. But all let lose during the second 45 minutes as the Highlanders came out strong, scoring two goals in quick succession by Nestor Albiach and Alaaeddine Ajaraie respectively. Ajaraie went on to complete his brilliant brace from a penalty. Soon after East Bengal FC went down to 10 men after a direct red card and a last-leg finish from Mohammed Bemammer sealed a devastating 4-0 defeat.

Assistant coach Bino George highlighted the significance of the match, noting that many players were making their ISL debuts and gained valuable experience despite the heavy loss.

"Today, you know, three of the players were in their debut match, and most of them just got some more game time. So I'm happy with their performance in the first half," he said during the post-match press conference.

"But second half, after some silly mistake, we conceded a goal and after that, we all know what happened. But I'm happy with the performance and the fact that they also now know how to play against tough teams and they have gained some experience," he added.

FT | A tough second half 💔#NEUEBFC pic.twitter.com/8KW0OZ2FiH

— East Bengal FC (@eastbengal_fc) March 8, 2025

Speaking aboutthe performance of Cleinton Silva, one of the most experienced players in their squad, he replied, "Cleiton was injured. He is recovering from an injury last last week, yet he trained with the team. So he said to us that he wants to help the boys because in the front he can lead, and show them how to follow, how to work out. So, he can help the boys and we are happy for his performance, especially since NorthEast United FC played with a full squad today."

George maintained that the team was not overconfident, given the inexperience of several players and the strength of NorthEast United's lineup.

Coach said, "Five or six players were playing in the ISL for the first time. We had only one foreigner playing today. And they had a full squad, including all foreigners, who played. So we have no over-confidence."

"We want to give chances to those who have not played enough match time in the ISL so far. We wanted to help them, we wanted to build the team up for the future," he added.

Although he acknowledged mistakes leading to goals in the second half, he expressed satisfaction with the young players' performance in the first half.

"Yeah, generally for today's players and what we did today I am happy, even though it was a big 4-0 loss. We are happy with our players' performance. We will keep working because this is one of the best opportunities to give the young players some playing time," he said.

"Every match you lose is sad for the club, but what I am looking for is what the young boys did, how they performed against the top team. So, that is my only concern," he concluded.