Internet Desk: Indian football team coach, Stephen Constantine looked really happy after India edged past Mauritius 2-1 in the opening encounter of the Tri-nation series which is taking place at the Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai. Constantine hailed the performance of his striker Robin Singh and Balwant Singh who helped India to win their ninth match on a trot despite the Men in Blue were trailing in the first half against the visitors.
Robin ended his long goal drought in the blue jersey, when he scored the equalizer for the home side on the 37th minute of the game. Later Balwant, who came in place of Robin on the start of the second half scored the winner on the 62nd minute of play.
On being asked about Robin Singh ending his goal drought, Constantine said, “I told you before that I don’t care whether he scores or not, I care that he does the work,” the English coach told reporters at the post-match press conference.
“Robin is not going to score 15-20 goals in a season, that’s not his style of play but he beats the crap out of defenders. He is a punishing player and the wear and tear he leaves on a player for 90 minutes or even 45 minutes results in other players scoring. So, it’s not always about Robin scoring but I’m pleased with the way he took his goal,” he added.
Constantine further lauded the work rat and tenacity of Robin Singh, and added that he won’t be the same without these qualities.
“Robin is a particular player that if he does not do the work then he cannot be the player that he can be. I thought he worked hard in some patches and I’m very pleased with his goal,” the coach said.
Constantine looked very happy with the performance of Balwant Singh, who came after the substitution of Robin Singh. It was the maiden International goal of the former Mohun Bagan star striker who was playing his second match for the national side.
“Balwant, for me today, was superb. He absolutely ran himself to the ground and I’m really happy that he got his first international goal,” said the Englishman.