Chennaiyin FC head coach Bozidar Bandovic hailed the spirit and effort of his players as they beat Jamshedpur FC 1-0 to reignite their semi-final hopes after recent defeats in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL).

 Lucasz Gikiewicz scored the game’s only goal as Chennaiyin moved up to fifth place.

Bandovic was particularly pleased with his players’ response after losses in the last two matches.

The head coach spoke to the media after the match.

Here are the excerpts from his post-match press conference:

Would you term this win as a tactical masterclass?

I think we were very good tactically. We showed great discipline and concentration. It was difficult for the boys as we are playing after two losses. These players give everything for the team every match and that makes me proud. Their effort, their spirit was great and we had problems before this game. Ariel Borysiuk was injured and we couldn't use Nerijus Valskis. Vladimir Koman was sick all night and we didn't know if he will play or not. That's why we had to take him off as he couldn't give any more.

You did not let Greg Stewart dominate tonight. What was the plan to stop him?

Of course it was a tough game with many second balls, many crosses. We analysed his game and we knew his movements and where he can be very dangerous. I think the boys did well with the double marking and controlled the space well.

You dropped Vishal Kaith and played Debjit Majumder. Do you think he was properly tested?

He had a good game but we played well as a team. We win and lose as a team. I always make the decision that's best for the team and that decision was for Debjit to play and Vishal to take a break. We are helping both of them.

Lukasz Gikiewicz scored at last. Did Valskis' arrival spur him on?

I don't think so. We needed a goal from set-piece because we were working so hard. He scored that goal and I'm very happy for him. But the team's win is more important. Now we will have to wait for Valskis to be fit.