Jamshedpur: Pune FC faces a final test of character when they square off with East Bengal in the Under-20 I-League (Final Phase) at the JRD Sports Complex, Jamshedpur, on Sunday.
Currently leading the league table with 10 points, Pune FC needs a win to defend their title.
The reason for Pune FC’s situation stems from the fact that hosts Tata Football Academy (8 points) remain within striking zone of the title.
The organizers have thus shifted the TFA-Mohun Bagan AC from JRD Sports Complex to the Gopal Stadium in order to have a simultaneous kick-off with the Pune FC-East Bengal game. As per the initial schedule, TFA were to play before Pune FC at JRD.
Pune FC’s Kolkata opponents on the morrow currently languish in the last spot. With just 1 point from a draw against TFA (Rd-1; Final Phase), East Bengal seemly remained in shock after TFA rallied with an injury time goal. Three defeats in-a-row since then is something Pune FC will hope to exploit in their quest.
However, the defending champions will have to remain calm, focused and keep off the pressure of expectations and do their job.
Pune FC Head of Youth, Ranjan Chowdhury says, “They are charged. The boys played a hard game against a ‘very lucky’ TFA. They (Pune FC) were eager to seal the title against the hosts, but now know the importance of the last round as well.”
“Teams this year have been more competitive,” he adds.
On Saturday, Pune FC went through a fun-session that was mixed with recovery exercises at the Gopal stadium. “I am happy they are looking ahead to Sunday’s game,” added Head Youth, pointing out to a clutch of players engrossed in conversation about the match ahead.
For Pune FC the game is a do-or-die situation and very important as this would the last game that most will be playing together.
“Yes, it is important for them. They know it and I do know that they are raring to go,” adds the Head of Youth.
While Pune FC is aware of the task, the result they hope to avoid is a draw. This because if TFA win their game a host of factors which includes better goal difference, highest number of goals will apply separate.
Ahead of the final round, Pune FC’s goal difference is +4 (TFA is +3). Likewise, Pune FC has scored 7 goals compared to 5 by the hosts.
Like the match against TFA, Pune FC will be plagued by a suspension. This time around it will be striker L.William (double booking). The Mizoram lad’s absence is huge having led from the front in the scoring department with 7 goals.
On the brighter side, right-wing back Henry Monsang and central mid-fielder Lalrempuia are back in the side after serving suspension and adds variety. With Wiliam out, the options revolve around bringing in striker Deepak Kumar or shuffle the midfield.
“We are ready for the fight,” adds the Pune FC Head of Youth.