ISL 2017/18: Avram Grant's tactics helped us win against Chennaiyin FC, says NorhtEast United star Semilen Doungel

NorthEast United stunned everyone as they defeated the table toppers Chennaiyin FC 3-1 in what was a convincing victory for the John Abraham-owned franchise, in what was billed as a do-or-die game for the Highlanders.

With this win, NEUFC still keep their hopes of making a maiden semi-final appearance in the ISL alive. Hat-trick hero Semilen Doungel, better known as Len, said to Sportskeeda that Avram Grant had made large-scale changes in his tactics, something that helped them get the win over the highflying Chennaiyin.

"Yes the coach changed the formation and style of play but it is suiting everyone in the team and we put the coach’s instruction into play," said Len. "Everyone in the team is very happy now, we are enjoying our training sessions and we are enjoying playing football."

Meanwhile, coach Avram Grant believes that his side now follows the "modern" techniques of training under his regime, something that seems to be bearing the fruits.

“See I always focus on our game mostly you can say 70 percent of my planning is based on what we can do and the rest 30 percent depends on how are opponents play," he said. "This is the modern era of football you cannot stick to just one type of formation or style, in this era you need to have knowledge of multiple styles.

"See, I always try and train my team to be able to play in at least two different ways or formations, but always keeping our core tactics in place and focusing on our game rather than our opponents,” said Grant.

The former Chelsea FC boss also stressed on the fact that the players have responded positively to the changes that he has made at NEUFC.

"All the players are always willing to learn and improve which helps the team a lot. And as for as how they are adapting to the new training regime and change well I hope you have your answer after the result we had," he said.

This was an essential victory for NorthEast, as it keeps the Highlanders in contention for a spot in the top four.