Bengaluru FC B who were recently crowned ‘Champions of Bengaluru’ will kick off their campaign in the Hero 2nd Division League with an away clash against FC Goa Reserves at the Bambolim Stadium on January 16th. Placed in Group A, BFC B will be up against LoneStar Kashmir FC, Delhi-based Hindustan FC and ARA FC from Ahmedabad, apart from Indian Super League side FC Goa’s reserves.

The fixtures, which were announced last week will see the Blue Colts play eight games in the Group Stage and while the ISL reserve sides do not stand a chance to qualify for the final phase, the competition provides a good platform for the young squad to test their mettle against other professional sides from across the country.

Led by Naushad Moosa, BFC B began their season with the Puttaiah Memorial Cup triumph in October, traveled north to participate in the J&K Invitational Cup where they reached the semi-finals before participating in the Sikkim Gold Cup. Moosa believes these experiences have helped the players immensely as they came back to the city, winning the Super Division League for the first-time ever.

“Playing outstation tournaments has really helped us build the bond within the team especially with those who joined this year. We had some exciting matches in Srinagar and Sikkim and those helped us experience different situations. Our team has shown great consistency throughout the season so far, right from the Puttaiah Cup to the Super Division and every match has been a learning experience. The boys have adapted to our system, playing some excellent free flowing football,” said Moosa.

While the Blue Colts finished second in the Group behind TRAU FC last season, the aim this time around will be to better that performance. “Winning two tournaments this season has helped bring up the confidence level within the squad. We had some intense games this season and those have made the boys realise the importance of playing as a unit. They’re eager to be back in action and want to prove themselves in the 2nd Division League,” Moosa added.

The Group Stage of the competition will be played on a home-away basis with Bengaluru FC B hosting all their games at the Bangalore Football Stadium.

(Bengaluru FC)