The result takes the home side to 19 points from 12 matches, a point less from table toppers and defending champions Atletico de Kolkata.
“We were lucky to get the goal. I looked at the bench and all I could see is all strikers, so I had to use them effectively, said Zico at the post match conference.
The coach rued the injuries to key players such as playmaker Joffre, Romeo, Luciano, Keenan and others.
“I have a lot of players with injuries and I cannot use available players to play in different positions. Pronay was not fully fit and I asked him whether he could play for at least 20 minutes and he played really well.”
Pronay made an immediate impact after coming on as a substitute in the 78th minute. The midfielder stretched all out to win the ball in the midfield and sent in a perfect pass to Leo Moura, who kept his calm to head the ball towards Reinaldo as the Brazilian unleashed a stunning half volley for the equalizer, 10 minutes from time.
“Injuries are a problem in the end but we have to carry on. Overall, I am very happy with the team. I have to thank the supporters for backing us throughout. The motive is to secure more points and hope we make the most of it from the remaining two matches.”
Zico was on the opinion that his team must go all out to clinch points and not depend on other teams’ results.
“Like last year, everyone can be in the playoffs as this is a very tough tournament.”
The Gaurs next take on Kerala Blasters FC on November 29 followed by their final league match against Roberto Carlos’ Delhi Dynamos FC on December 6.
