ISL 2017: Chennaiyin coach Gregory predicts 'end-to-end' derby game against Bengaluru FC

Ahead of the crucial ISL fixture between Bengaluru FC and Chennaiyin FC at the Kantterava Stadium on Sunday, Chennai coach John Gregory is hopeful that his side can come away with a win at the Fortress. The Blues are top of the table after five games with 12 points and had started the season with wins in both their home fixtures.

"Bengaluru FC are top of the league and they're what everyone else is aiming for," Gregory said. "It can be easy to get there but to stay there is the most difficult thing. We'll be looking to get all three points."

Bengaluru vs Chennai is a south Indian derby of sorts and the veteran English coach was quick to point that out.

"Back in Chennai, I'm aware it's a derby. Bengaluru are by far the closest team to us - the flight was only half an hour! There is a bit of local rivalry at stake and I believe we'll bring some fans from Chennai to the game."

Gregory wary of Bengaluru's form but will attack

The Chennai coach was happy with the playing surface at the Kanteerava Stadium, claiming it would help his style of play. So will he play attacking football against a side that usually dominates possession?

"I do believe we will [see an end-to-end game]. We won't see too much of the ball in the air with a surface like this that encourages football. They do play a very high-pressing game. They like to keep possession. He has built a team here where every outfield player is comfortable with the ball."

The Blues have only lost once so far this season - to FC Goa when they were reduced to 10 men - and coach Gregory praised his opposite number Albert Roca for their quick turnaround since that loss.

"Bengaluru are on a great run at the moment. Albert [Roca] is very fortunate that the team has been together for a very long time.

"He's had players come in in September and it has enhanced the team. They know each other inside out, and the coach knows them very well. In many respects, they have a slight advantage."

"They're playing very well; very fluently - both home and away. Miku (who has scored 6 goals so far) is fantastic striker and we'll look to keep him quiet."

Miku is Bengaluru's top goal scorer with 6 goals (Image: ISL)

Gregory hopes referees do not affect the outcome

Gregory also hoped that refereeing decisions wouldn't cost either team in the game tomorrow, even alluding to Gurpreet Singh's red card in Bengaluru's first away fixture.

"I'm concerned that referees are affecting the outcome of games. You saw a goalkeeper get sent off and you should have seen a second goalkeeper get sent off after that although the decision is debatable."

"I hope the referee is fair and doesn't favour one team or the other."