U15 Youth League: Pune FC hope to build on impressive show; host PIFA Colaba FC

Pune: Pune FC is keen to build on their impressive show as they host PIFA Colaba FC in a crucial Under-15 Youth League Maharashtra Zone Round-3 encounter at the Pune FC Training Pitches in Mamurdi on Sunday.

Having begun the campaign with back-to-back wins in the zonals, Pune FC currently sit top of the standings with six points and are looking for their third consecutive win when they face third placed PIFA Colaba (3 pts).

Speaking on the eve of the clash, Pune FC Coach Mohan Dass said, “The team is confident after wins in the opening two games. We have played a good game and scored goals. But there is still room for improvement and we are working on our shortcomings. We hope to get better with every game.”

Pune FC, who are back in familiar surrounds, are eager to make most of their home advantage against a tricky PIFA Colaba side who come into the game on the back of mixed results. They hammered Steadfast Academy 8-1 in the opening clash before going down to Mumbai FC 0-2 in the previous round.

Giving his views on the opponents, Coach Mohan Dass said, “PIFA are a better team than the others we have faced till now and so we expect a tough match. Due to exams going on in various schools, we have had only a few full-fledged training sessions. Nonetheless, we are well prepared and will approach every game with a positive mind set.”

On the team news front, Pune FC are missing a couple of players due to injuries and a few changes expected in the lineup. However, majority of the team has been training regularly and will provide the necessary cover.

The match kicks off at 3.30 PM IST on Sunday.