CHENNAI: The year after Chennaiyin FC won their first Indian Super League ( ISL ) trophy, they finished second last. The story doesn't look to be any different this year too. After a successful season last year, great things were expected from the John Gregory-cached side but they have been nothing but disappointing.

The defending champions are struggling in the ninth position with just four points from eight games and a defeat against Kerala Blasters on Thursday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium could possibly end any realistic hopes of them reaching the play-offs. But though chances are slim, coach Gregory is not ready to give up just yet.

"It's very important for us to get all three points. Our players have to realise the importance of the match to our fans as well. There is a lot of pride at stake. We need a victory and get back in the race somehow," said Gregory.

Gregory has tried tweaking his team throughout the season for a better result. He tried Francis Fernandes at right back and fielded Inigo Calderon as a defensive midfielder. Carlos Salom has been brought in place of an off colour Jeje Lalpekhlua but nothing paid off.

"It's not easy to motivate the team under such circumstances. I have had to change combinations to see what works best and it has not been accepted well by some players. I have had to deal with that too. But I admit that I have made some poor choices in selecting the playing XI too in some games."

Kerala Blasters too have struggled this season and except for their opening win over ATK, they are yet to register full points and are placed seventh with seven points. Blasters have also lost crucial points after conceding the dying minutes of the game. In the last game against NorthEast they were 1-0 up till the end of regulation time but ended up losing 1-2 after the final whistle.

"I get a slight frustration that we lost to three best teams in the ISL. The losses to Bengaluru and Goa were acceptable to a point but the one against NorthEast United one was not. Holding on to a lead is a problem for us. It is due to our problems with player management, game management. I don't think it is a fitness issue," a visibly upset James said.

But even though Chennaiyin are struggling to find their feet, James is not taking them lightly. "In football no game is ever easy. We need one result to get that confidence about us. Being the Southern derby as well, what more do you want?"

