Jamshedpur up for Chennaiyin challenge

Jamshedpur: Jamshedpur FC’s robust defensive structure will be tested by leaders Chennaiyin FC in an Indian Super League match here on Thursday.

Steve Coppell’s sound defensive organisation has made Jamshedpur a tough team in their debut ISL season.

They are currently sixth on the table with nine points and a win against Chennaiyin (13 from seven) will propel them within a point behind the leaders.

Jamshedpur haven’t conceded many and haven’t scored heavily either, losing only once in six matches, drawing thrice and winning twice.

Coppell has been very pragmatic in his approach, insisting on putting emphasis on his team’s long-term goals of avoiding becoming wooden spooners in their debut season.

“It is obvious from the number of games we have played and the goals that we have scored. But it’s not for lack of trying. We are, as always, working very hard on the training field. And we try and score more goals. It is the main objective in football. But we have not conceded many goals,” Coppell said on Wednesday.

Jamshedpur will be without first-choice centre-back Anas Edathodika, who is down with injury. After having shared points against Kerala Blasters, Chennaiyin will be looking to stretch their lead at the top of the table.

Chennaiyin coach John Gregory said it won’t be an easy game against a fellow English tactician.