The Fiji Times

Neighbours set for round one match

- By JOHN CHETTY

NAVUA FC is set to face off against Nadroga FC in the highly anticipate­d round one of the Digicel Fiji Premier League competitio­n, which will be held at Uprising sports center in Navua, on Sunday.

With three new additions to their roster, the team is optimistic about their chances to secure a positive outcome in the game.

The new additions to the team include Mohammad Ali Mekawir from Solomon playing as a striker, national representa­tive Filipe Baravilala in defense, and Jovilisi Borisi as the goalkeeper. These players are expected to make a significan­t impact on the team and will be ones to watch during the game.

Team coach Saiyad Ali also highlighte­d the financial challenges that Navua FC faces in preparing for the competitio­n.

The lack of sponsorshi­p and financial support has made it difficult to adequately prepare the team, with players needing to be paid allowances and financial resources to train effectivel­y.

This financial disadvanta­ge puts them at a disadvanta­ge compared with bigger districts with more resources and support.

“The bigger districts have taken advantage over us, the first thing to prepare a team is always the finance side, at the end of the day if we bring players in for training, we need to play them,” said Ali.

“We don’t have such sponsors like the bigger district has and we are still looking for sponsors that is a huge challenge for us.

“The team is determined to make the most of the resources we have and have been working hard to prepare for the upcoming game.” he added.

They are focused on improving their finishing, which has been a weak point in previous games, and are confident that they can put on a strong performanc­e against Nadroga FC.

Nadroga FC is recognised as a formidable opponent, with strong players and representa­tion from talented Solomon Island players.

Ali acknowledg­es the strength of the opposition, but remains optimistic about his team’s chances.

The team is not underestim­ating Nadroga FC and is looking forward to the challenge they will present in the upcoming game. Digicel Fiji Premier League 2024

Round 1:

Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori, Rewa Labasa 3pm

Fiji FA Academy, BA (Field 1) Suva – BA 3pm.

Uprising Sports Center, Navua, NasinuLaut­oka 11am, Navua-Nadroga 3pm.

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 ?? Picture: SUPPLIED. ?? Members of the Navua FC side after a training session at the Uprising Sports Centre in Pacific Harbour.
Picture: SUPPLIED. Members of the Navua FC side after a training session at the Uprising Sports Centre in Pacific Harbour.

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