Jamshedpur FC head coach Khalid Jamil expressed disappointment as his team drew against NorthEast United FC with a 1-1 scoreline in the opening game of Matchweek 13 of the Indian Super League (ISL) at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on Wednesday.

It ends all square in #JFCNEUFC. #JamKeKhelo pic.twitter.com/RaoMNXIH5k

— Jamshedpur FC (@JamshedpurFC) January 31, 2024

In the thrilling encounter, the Men of Steel were the first to find the back of the net, in the 33rd minute of the match, when Imran Khan slotted the ball past the keeper from a pinpoint Daniel Chima Chukwu through ball. Jamshedpur FC couldn’t hold on to the lead for long as Moroccan midfielder Mohammed Ali Bemmamer scored a banger from outside the box to level the scores for the Highlanders in the 66th minute, concluding the match 1-1 at full time. 

Jamshedpur FC has experienced a dip in form at their home ground, failing to secure a win in their last five home games. The team's most recent triumph at the Furnace was against Hyderabad FC in October 2023. Prior to their return to ISL action, Jamshedpur FC showcased promising form, reaching the semi-finals of the Kalinga Super Cup.

Jamil was disappointed to have dropped points against his former employers in his first ISL league game in charge of Jamshedpur FC but gave credit to the players for trying. 

“Everybody tried. They (NorthEast United FC) also came hard on us for the equalizer and they got their equalizer I think after 30 minutes (since we scored). But we tried and that is a good point. But I was thinking to get three points. It was better for us,” stated Jamil in the post-match press conference.

The 46-year-old believes in a home game his team should've maintained the lead and pulled off all three points. 

Analyzing why his team couldn’t do so, Jamil shared, “I think lack of concentration. Because when you score one goal in home game, you have to keep. And it is enough, I think. But, even when they equalize, we got a chance. (Daniel) Chima scored, but it was handball, I think. And we must try more because in home game we must get three points.”

Khan was one of the standout players for Jamshedpur FC in their match against NorthEast United FC, posing a significant threat from the left flank. He exhibited commendable work rate, tirelessly delivering dangerous crosses and establishing effective link-ups with his teammates. It's worth noting that Khan had previously collaborated with Jamil during his time at NorthEast United FC.

Jamil was happy to see Khan score his first goal for the Men of Steel and perceives it as a good sign. 

He said, “I'm happy he's (Imran Khan) trying. Since I came he's trying and he's a good player, versatile player. He can play right, he crosses his route, even in the middle he can control. That is a good sign that he scored a goal.”

Jamil concluded the press conference by acknowledging the support at the Furnace and expressed his desire to feel the same support in every match. 

“We got good support. We need to keep the same support in every match,” he wrapped up.