Marcelinho’s 86th-minute strike proved to be the difference at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, as FC Pune City edged hosts NorthEast United FC 1-0 in Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 on Wednesday. The three points ensured that the Stallions grabbed the second spot on the table, five points below table-toppers Bengaluru FC. After the final whistle, indiansuperleague.com caught up with goal-scorer Marcelinho and custodian Vishal Kaith to find out their views on the match and more. Here are the excerpts.

Thoughts on the match?

Marcelinho: I am happy with the victory but we did not play well. NorthEast controlled the match, but we are in a crucial part of the championship where we need points and we are happy with the three points. They give confidence for the next match. I hope we win the next match and be in the semi-final.

Kaith: We got the three points and we are very happy. Everybody worked hard and gave their 100%. We needed the three points. After 14 games, we are in the second spot and it’s very good for us.

How strong are your chances of getting into the playoffs?

Marcelinho: Like I told you, this win gives us the confidence to go through to the playoffs. We need to get points. Doesn’t matter if we play well or not.

Kaith: Today’s match was very important and now there is a 60-70% chance that we will qualify. We will try to perform well in the remaining matches.

Kaith, your thoughts on your performance?

It is good for me as a keeper to maintain a clean sheet, it always feels good.

Your take on Marcelinho’s goal?

It was so good! It was a do-or-die situation for us and when we scored, it felt really good. The team got the three points.

How are you going to handle the pressure for the remaining away games?

Our results have been good for away games this season. Everyone has been playing good and we hope to continue doing this.

What according to you set your team apart?

First will be our defence, as we have a good one and everyone plays together on the field. Our attack is perfect as well. So this makes our team stronger.