Kerala Blasters FC succumbed to their first home defeat in Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 after going down 3 – 1 against Bengaluru FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Sunday. Miku scored a brace and Chhetri converted from the spot to ensure the win for the Blues, while Courage Pekuson grabbed a late consolation for the hosts. Speaking to the media during the post-match press conference was Kerala head coach Rene Meulensteen, who called the penalty the game-changer.

“It was a tough game all through,” he admitted. “We knew we had to step up. I thought we started the second half better. But then the penalty changed the game. Then our players struggled. We tried to get back in. But then it all comes down to quality in the right areas. But we didn’t provide that till the last-minute flash in the pan from Courage (Pekuson).”

Asked about his team’s performance, the Dutchman did not hide his disappointment, and highlighted what created problems during the match. “It’s (the performance) not good and not acceptable,” Meulensteen stated. “And obviously the players know that. They probably got carried away by the emotion of trying to make up for the goal that went against them. But you can’t legislate for human error. Simple as that. Then Bengaluru with the quality players they have, took advantage of it.”

He also had some worrying news regarding injuries. “Rino (Anto) and CK (Vineeth) got injured yesterday in training,” Meulensteen revealed. “And obviously Berbatov’s injury has been there. Hopefully we can get one or two back for the next game. I won’t say Vineeth is out long-term, but I don’t think we will see him for the Pune game and the Delhi game is doubtful as well. Hopefully after that we can make an assessment.”