I-League: Pune FC colts ready for Mohun Bagan test today

The clash for both teams is a first-of-its-kind and Pune FC hope to stand tall in this crucial round of the league.

Pune FC Head of Youth Development Ranjan Chowdhury said: “As contenders,it’s turning out to be a challenge to maintain good performances match after match,but we are a team with a mission.”

Both Pune FC (6 points) and Bagan (4 points) go into the game having won their last round,making the game important for both. While Bagan had a fluent 2-0 win over traditional rivals East Bengal,Pune FC came away with a 3-2 win over Salgaocar FC.

“Having faced the Goan teams (Sesa FA and Salgaocar) earlier and proven ourselves,we would like to do the same with the Kolkata side as well,” said Chowdhury. In fact,Pune FC began their quest in the league this year with a 2-1 win over Kolkata’s Prayag United SC and will hope to extract confidence from that.

With a recovery session lined up at the JRD (archery ground),owing to the cramped scheduling,Chowdhury concluded: “Despite playing on alternate days,and barring a few niggles,the team is fit and psychologically motivated. They are ready to prove they are the best once again.”

Meanwhile,though Pune FC will have a full-strength squad to choose from,the worry of seven players carrying yellow cards exists.

With 20 players to choose from,Pune FC is expected to ring in some changes.

Pune FC’s game on Wednesday is their second (apart from one in the group stage) at JRD Stadium after a one-match break. Playing the first match of the day,in considerably high temperatures,is a cause for worry,though.