With the top four spots of ISL VIII out of sight, SC East Bengal will be looking to salvage some pride as they lock horns with Kerala Blasters at the Tilak Maidan in Vasco on Monday.

Kerala Blasters sit at fifth place on the ISL table, with 23 points from 14 matches, and have a chance to break into the top-four should they snatch a point from Monday’s game. SC East Bengal are 10th above NorthEast United, with 10 points from 16 games.

SC East Bengal coach Mario Rivera threw in a word of warning for his remaining opponents. “I’m sure the top teams will not be happy to play SC East Bengal now, because they know we’ll be a very difficult team to beat. We are focused on winning the next match,” Rivera said.

Asked about the potential of Kerala Blasters, Rivera said: “Blasters have a very balanced side. Their attack and defence complement each other. Of course, they’ll miss some players in tomorrow (Monday)’s game, but their squad depth is fantastic.”

The Spaniard also had a positive update on Jackichand Singh. “Jackichand is now training with the squad and, hopefully, he’ll be ready to play tomorrow (Monday)’s match,” Rivera said.