Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle expressed his delight with his team's performance as they returned to winning ways with a gritty victory over Hyderabad FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) on Wednesday.

Despite both teams managing just one shot on target, Chennaiyin FC created the clearer opportunities, even though they had less possession of the ball.

“What we showed tonight was very important. That reaction, the grit, the desire. When we went up and we made sure we saw the game through, even went down to 10 men. But we were the team that were looking to add to the goals. We had some wonderful chances early in the second half. Irfan scored one from a cross, Jordan had a great header, Connor cut one back for Farukh just somewhere around the back post so there were times we had an edge and we’ve been there but that’s natural when you’ve lost a couple of games.. You think I want to take what I’ve got but you relax, focus, concentrate moving the ball and maybe we did that. We created some really good chances,” said Coyle during the post-match press conference.

A major concern for Chennaiyin FC arose in the first half when Elsinho, who came on to replace defender Ryan Edwards, was forced off around the hour mark due to an injury. Coyle provided an update on the Brazilian’s condition, which appeared serious, while awaiting the results of medical scans.

“He has to undergo scans now on his neck, back of his head and different things but I hope the scans come back clear. The good thing is that he is responsive, but ultimately when we see the scans, we will know that his neck has no fracture or no damage. I think at this moment of time we keep our thoughts and prayers with Elsinho to make sure he’s okay,” Coyle shared.

This victory marked Chennaiyin FC's first home win of the season, ending a three-match losing streak at the Marina Arena. Coyle was especially pleased to secure the win for the loyal home fans who braved the rain to support the team.

“What I wanted to do was put a smile tonight on those (Chennaiyin FC) fans’ faces. The ones that came tonight.. It was raining and everything and it’s not easy when you’ve lost a couple of games to come. That loyal band of support that we got, the Super Machans, the B Stand Blues and the ones at the side, all credit to them. They come, they’re loyal, they’re vocal and get behind the team so I'm delighted to put a smile on their face tonight,” he said.

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