Pune: Sitting pretty at the fifth position on the league table, Pune FC would host the low lying team Pailan Arrows at the Balewadi Sports Complex on Sunday. Pailan who are placed on 8 points from 18 matches are still searching their first win in the I-League are still searching for their first win while Pune FC have 34 points in their 20 games.

But Pune FC stay wary of Arrow’s challenge. The Arrows have, with their tight defence, made it difficult for many higher-ranked teams in the League this season. Also, Pune did slip up quite a few times against lower-ranked teams and that stays Coach Derreck Pereira’s concern.

Pailan Coach Sujit Chakraborthy, nevertheless, stays confident about their chances against Pune FC. “Undoubtedly Pune are a champion side, whom you can’t take lightly. But our team is well prepared. We put up a good fight against them in the IFA Shield recently where we forced them to a draw,” he maintained.

“We performed well in the IFA Shield where we reached the semis. The morale stays high at the moment. We will be competitive for sure.”

Pereira, who with his Midas Touch have propelled the Pune to the top half after a dismal start stays cautious. “We have to remain vigilant against Arrows. They are a young, energetic and capable side. They have the ability to surprise anyone,” he said.

“Defensively they are very good, also they would be out on Sunday to prove themselves. But I expect my boys to be on a high after much-needed break. We have prepared well for the remaining phase of the League,” he commented.

By Indian Sports News Network