Jamshedpur FC interim coach Scott Cooper was satisfied with the result as his side clinched a point against East Bengal FC in their opening match of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, in Kolkata, on Monday.

Jamshedpur FC played out a goalless draw as they failed to break the deadlock in a closely-fought encounter against East Bengal FC. The Red and Gold Brigade created more goal-scoring chances, but failed to beat Jamshedpur FC custodian Rehenesh TP. Visitors Jamshedpur FC generated a few attacks on occasions but failed to make an impact with those.

“When you play away from home, first game of the season, you keep a clean sheet, and you get a point. I don't think you can grumble. That said, I think we have some big moments, some really good shooting moments — in the first half that we didn't shoot. We just went for an extra pass, or extra twist, or a turn. So, we passed those opportunities,” Cooper stated in the post-match press conference.

“I think we have some big moments towards the end on the counter-attack that we just look like a team that just needs a little bit more time, a little bit more development. It's a team that surely will improve as we get going. Some younger players there some new foreign players to the league. But generally, I think we have to be satisfied, but not happy,” he explained.

Brazilian defender Elsinho was solid at the back helping the Men of Steel stave off all intensive attacks by East Bengal FC. He made 11 clearances against East Bengal FC and got the Player of the Match award.

“He's (Elsinho) good in the air, he's composed of the ball, he's perfect as a middle guy in the back three. Pratik (Choudhary) and Dinpuia complimented him. And so he showed experience; he showed composure. And actually, I'm a little disappointed because I know he's a real big threat from set piece. I think he was there or thereabouts; he just didn't find his way to him,” Cooper praised.

Jamshedur FC have another away trip lined up as they take on Kerala Blasters FC on Sunday. The Englishman believes that this side will get better with time and stated his players need some matches to get more fluent by knowing each other.

“As a coach, you have to be happy with the defensive display, but then think, okay, as we players get to know each other more, because our players don't really know each other that well. As we get to know each other more, they'll understand the runs, the movements, and that becomes a little bit more fluid,” he further added.

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Jamshedpur FCEast Bengal FC