Bengaluru: The message from Bengaluru FC head coach Renedy Singh was loud and clear: “Give your 100 per cent and push till the final whistle”.In the shortened Indian Super League season, with simply 13 matches per group, there isn’t a room for error. The Blues have collected 4 factors — one win and a draw — from the primary two video games, however there may be scope for enchancment as they face Punjab FC on the Sree Kanteerava Stadium right here on Friday.
The house group, who might need conceded only one aim, didn’t look nice whereas defending set items. With India defender Rahul Bheke’s availability nonetheless a priority, after his knee niggle, the backline needs to be on high of their sport towards a decided Punjab facet. They should be scientific within the remaining third as nicely, however Renedy burdened on the significance of arising with an improved present on the again.“Our defending has to be a lot better. All the chances that the opponent created (so far) were from throw ins, corners and free kicks. We have to improve on our set-piece defending, which is a big part in football,” Renedy mentioned.Bengaluru might need the sting at house with established gamers of their ranks, together with Ashique Kuruniyan, Naorem Roshan, Chinglensana Singh, and Ryan Williams amongst others. Add the previous India captain Sunil Chhetri, who got here from the bench in each the video games, and new signing Braian Sanchez, BFC have a formidable facet.Irrespective of how the 2 groups sit on paper, Renedy simply needs his gamers to present their finest. “I want our players fighting out for every single ball, defending and attacking well. We have to play as if tomorrow is the last match. If the players give 100 per cent, then I’m ready to take whatever result,” the 46-year-old gaffer added.On the opposite hand, Punjab will probably be eager to get off the mark after they misplaced 0-1 to Jamshedpur FC. The Shers, who knocked out the Blues within the Super Cup, will rely upon the companies of Effiong Nsungusi up entrance and Dani Ramírez in midfield.On Thursday: FC Goa 1 (Dejan Drazic 43) bt Sporting Delhi 0. Today’s matches: East Bengal vs Jamshedpur (5 pm), Bengaluru FC vs Punjab FC (7.30 pm).
