Chennaiyin FC registered their third consecutive win of Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 after beating defending champions ATK at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Thursday. Jeje Lalpekhlua scored a brace for Chennai that included a dramatic 90^th minute winner, and Inigo Calderon also got his name on the scoresheet.

Chennai’s head coach John Gregory hailed his side’s never-say-die attitude at the post-match press conference, while also complimenting their opponents. “We have come on the back of a very tough game at Pune and we still kept going. ATK have a little bit more rest than us. They have got some really outstanding players in the team. Once they get a victory under their belt, they will be a totally different team,” he said.

The Englishman continued: “(Robbie) Keane made a difference to the team when he came on, so when they get him fit, they will be a team that will be challenging for the league. We should take a lot of credit for the way we played. We never gave up. The third goal was probably the best goal of the game. And I am obviously very delighted for Jeje.”

When asked if he had a special word with Lalpekhlua ahead of the game, Gregory said: “Not really, I picked him, so that should be enough confidence for him. He was in the starting line-up and he knew he was going to stay on the pitch after all three substitutions were made. So, he made use of his opportunities. I am very pleased for him because he worked hard. He held the ball up very well and he got his reward.”

The 63-year-old also admitted he was frustrated after a goalless first half. “Yes, I was frustrated. When you get on the pitch, it is a bit daunting. But sometimes you have to relax and use the ball better. Maybe on the training ground we need to do a bit more to improve that aspect of our game. But we certainly can play better. But at the end of the day it’s all about results and we won the game.”

The southerners beat ATK without their influential midfielder Raphael Augusto and Gregory revealed that he rested the Brazilian because he was carrying slight knock. “He’s been carrying a small knock and when he went on to the field, he was not at a 100%. So, we thought tonight we should give him a rest. He’s had three very tough matches. Fortunately, we won the game.”

Commenting on the performance of Chennai’s other goal-scorer Calderon, Gregory added: “Inigo will always want to try and go forward. He has got amazing energy for a 35-year-old. He is great to play with, he plays like a captain. He helps the young guys. He looks after Frankie Fernandes. He’s a good organiser. Calderon is one of the reasons why we have a very good team spirit. He is very inspirational to everybody around the camp.”