Labasa Coach Ravneel Pratap has stated that his team will head into the 2024 Flick Hygiene Pacific Community Cup in Lautoka as the underdogs. Despite recently clinching the Inter District Championship title, Pratap views the Babasiga Lions as the least experienced team in Group B, which he has dubbed a “pool of death” due to the formidable opponents they will face.
Pratap acknowledged the depth and experience of the other teams, highlighting that the USA All Stars comprise professional players, while the Auckland All Stars include many current and former national team players, positioning them as a shadow national team. Additionally, he noted that Rewa comes into the tournament with a strong background, having recently won the National League and participated in the OFC Champions League.
Despite these challenges, Pratap remains optimistic, expressing confidence that the team will give their best effort and strive to advance from this challenging group. He emphasized the importance of a positive mindset and called on Labasa supporters in the Western Division to rally behind the team, showcasing their loyalty and enthusiasm.
Adding to their strength, Labasa has welcomed Solomon Islands national representatives Atkin Kaua and Carlos Liomasia as guest players for the tournament. The team is set to kick off the competition with their first match against the USA All Stars at 4:30 PM today.
In summary, while Labasa faces a daunting challenge in the tournament, their recent victory and the addition of talented guest players provide a foundation for hope and the potential to surprise critics. The community’s support will be crucial as they embark on this exciting journey.
Leave a comment