Pune FC look to move up,to take on Chirag United SC

“We go into the game with a positive mood. We hope to maintain the same spirit like we did against Air India when we fought back despite being goal down,” said Coach Derrick Pereira.

But while PFC stand with a chance of moving up,its job in this encounter will be tough in the absence of striker Edmar Figueira. The Brazillian,who has struck in two consecutive matches,will sit out because of a double booking. However,Edmar’s absence will be compensated with the return of leading goal scorer Mandjou Keita.

The Guniea striker,who has six goals to his credit this season,will return to the line-up.

“We expect Keita to deliver the same way as Edmar has in his absence. The boys need to keep their heads down and stay focused as every point at this juncture of the league is crucial,” Pereira said.

He further said they have learnt the lesson hard way when they squandered a 4-0 advantage to be held by Viva Kerala at home in a round 16 match.

While PFC’s main objective will be to focus and keep their heads down during the game against Chirag United,their record in I-League away games against Kolkata teams is notable. From five visits,PFC has one win,three draws and once (v/s East Bengal 0-1 this season) has gone back disappointed.

Chirag in thier last three outings at home have involved themselves in high scoring encounters and ended up losing twice (1-4 to Salgaocar and 3-5 to Churchill Bros) and winning once (4-2 against ONGC),a factor PFC can exploit apart from being cautious.