ISL 2017: Jamshedpur FC to shift home match against Bengaluru FC to Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar

What's the story?

Jamshedpur FC's home game against Bengaluru FC, on February 25, has been moved from the JRD Tata Stadium in Jamshedpur to the Kalinga Stadium, in Bhubaneswar.

In case you didn't know...

Sitting sixth on the table, Jamshedpur FC are finally starting to look good in ISL 2017. JFC have an important set of fixtures coming up and they need to keep winning in order to close the 4-point gap they have with top side Chennaiyin FC.

The Kalinga Stadium is a multi-purpose arena, which is used mainly for hockey. It is used by the Kalinga Lancers in the Hockey India League. It will be for the first time that the stadium will be used in the ISL.

Heart of the Matter

An official announcement has been made regarding JFC's match against Bengaluru FC on February 25. The match which was scheduled to be held at the JRD Tata Stadium against Bengaluru FC has seen a venue change, the reason for which is still unknown. The venue of the match is being changed from JRD Tata Stadium to Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar.

Both JFC and BFC are neck-and-neck in this season of the Indian Super League, Jamshedpur FC are at 9 points while Bengaluru FC are at 12 points and have played an extra game.

The reverse fixture, which was played at Bengaluru FC's home saw JFC emerge victorious as they managed a last-gasp winner in the 92nd minute of the game.

What's Next?

Both Jamshedpur FC and Bengaluru FC have close to 5-6 fixtures to play before they face off at the Kalinga Stadium. Neither club can afford to slip-up as the top 6 clubs are separated by mere 4 points.

Author's Opinion

JFC haven't been in the best of form at home and have played much better away from home this season. A change in venue might be a psychological advantage for JFC as they will be looking to do the double over Bengaluru FC.