Punjab FC assistant coach Sankarlal Chakraborty shared his displeasure at sharing points with Mumbai City FC, despite taking a first-half lead in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday.

Luka Majcen opened the scoring for the hosts at the stroke of halftime with a clinical finish from an inch-perfect pass by Asmir Suljic that set Majcen through on goal. Despite the Shers starting the second half with a one-goal lead, the Islanders came on strong, and Nikolaos Karelis levelled the scoreline with a precise right-footed finish.

Both teams had their fair share of chances throughout the game, but neither could convert their offensive moves, leaving the score tied at the end of the second half.

The Punjab FC assistant coach remained optimistic about the game's outcome. Chakraborty also emphasized the importance of securing another point, considering the intensifying playoff qualification race as the season progresses.

“We came (into the game) for three points, but one point, at this moment, is good enough. At least this one point gives confidence for the next match” he said in the post-match press conference.

Chakraborty substituted goalscorer Luka Majcen in the 63rd minute to give Petros Giakoumakis his ISL debut.

When asked about the change, the Indian coach responded, “No, that is all of our plans. If you substitute any players, they will show a little bit of anger. It is not a big problem.”

“It was our plan that after 10-15 minutes of the second half, if we need any changes, the new foreigner should join. Because he should know our environment, players, and all these things.,” he continued.

With this draw, Punjab FC remain in eighth place with 20 points from 15 matches. However, Chakraborty remains hopeful about finishing in the top six and reaching the ISL playoffs for the first time.

“I believe we can (to qualify for the top six). We took the lead against East Bengal FC, Mohun Bagan SG. But in the second half, in the first 10-15 minutes, we conceded goals. Then, again, our team played according to our style,” he explained.

“We have time for another 10 days. We have to sit, talk, and we have to rectify. Otherwise, it's very difficult to reach the top six,” Chakraborty signed off.