SC East Bengal began their ISL VIII campaign with a 1-1 draw against Jamshedpur FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in Vasco on Sunday.

Both goals came from set pieces. Croatian defender Franjo Prce (17th) scored a delightful opener for the red and gold brigade while Peter Hartley (45+3) equalised at the stroke of half-time for Jamshedpur FC.

SC East Bengal were very uninspiring in the first match and will have to improve a lot if they want to make a case for themselves in the 11-team league.

“We have to improve, but these are early days. Yes fitness is a problem because of the extreme humid conditions here,” Antonio Perosevic told the official broadcaster after the match. “Our next match is the Derby. ATK Mohun Bagan are a very strong side with some very good players. We will give our best,” he added.

Jose Manuel Diaz started in a classic 4-4-2 formation with Hira Mondal and Lalrinliana Hnamte making their ISL debuts for SC East Bengal. Jamshedpur FC sported a rather familiar look with new attacking duo Jordan Murray and Greg Stewart named on the bench.

The opening few exchanges saw two youngsters impress particularly. Boris Singh made his mark in an attacking role for Jamshedpur while debutant Hnamte had a shot on target early for the Calcutta giants.

However, it was centre back Prce who found the opener. Bikash Jairu swung in a corner that goalkeeper Rehenesh TP managed to parry off. Antonio Perosevic brought it back into play for Hnamte to lay it in for Prce, whose back-volleyed effort found its way into the net.

Hartley left it till the end of half-time to level scores. Alex Lima’s flag-kick had Valskis flick it off for his captain who appeared to shoulder the ball past Arindam Bhattacharya, as SC East Bengal were left to rue their defensive error.

Ishan Pandita and Komal Thatal’s introduction in the second half gave an impetus to Valskis.