Subrata’s loss was a big blow: Armando
A dejected Team India Coach Armando Colaco lauded his boys for “playing a spirited game despite being reduced to nine-men.” Armando who spoke at the Post Match Press Conference added “the Red Cards were unnecessary and not justified.” India lost to UAE three-nil in the first-leg of the World Cup Qualifier on Saturday. The scoreline does look one-sided but Armando insisted that one needs to remember that two of his boys were red-carded by the 24th minute itself. “Everyone saw the match today and can easily make out what was right and what was wrong,” he said, only to add: “The match was evenly poised and we were neck to neck before the two penalties were awarded.” First Debabrata Roy was red-carded for pushing Mohammed Al Shhehi in the box – Hamdan Al Kamali converting form the spot in the 21st minute; and then goalkeeper Subrata Pal was given marching orders for an infringement on Ismail Al Hammadi in the 24th minute – Mohamed Al Shehhi gleefully converting from the spot. Armando admitted “Subrata’s loss was a big blow to the team.” “He is not only a great goalkeeper but he organises the defence very well. Nevertheless we will put our best foot forward in the home game.” The second-leg is slated to be played at the Ambedkar Stadium in New Delhi on July 28. Armando, however, refused to accept that India would enjoy a distinct advantage while playing at home. “We will be playing at Home and result can be overturned but it will be difficult to come back from a three-goal deficit,” he maintained. Armando lauded substitute goalkeeper Karanjit Singh for putting up an excellent show under the bar. “I appreciate the efforts each one put on the field. All 9 players played exceedingly well, especially Karanjit -- who had an outstanding game.”
