Lautoka Football Club is preparing for the upcoming FMF Inter District Championship (IDC), scheduled to take place from October 15-20. Following a remarkable season in which they triumphed in both the Fiji FACT and the Battle of the Giants tournaments, the team is determined to end the year on a high note.
Club president Shalendra Prasad announced that the team is actively trying to bring back former Lautoka goalkeeper Beniamino Mateinaqara for the competition, although no confirmation has been made yet. “Beniamino is the only player we are trying to get because he is a former Lautoka player, but we can’t confirm anything,” Prasad stated.
This strategy is part of the club’s efforts to strengthen its lineup ahead of what is expected to be a challenging competition. When inquired about the status of James Hoyt, Prasad simply remarked, “Nothing on Hoyt,” indicating there were no updates regarding his availability.
The team is focused on refining their current roster as they finalize their preparations. Prasad revealed that the official 22-member squad will be announced on Monday. “We will wait for our final 22 squad to be released, then I can make further comments,” he added.
As the hosts of this year’s IDC, Lautoka faces considerable expectations from their supporters, who are eager to see if the team can maintain its impressive form. After already securing two major trophies, the pressing question now is whether Lautoka can achieve a treble by adding the IDC to their trophy cabinet. All eyes will be on the Blues as they gear up for one of the biggest football events of the year.