FRIENDS United FC from Nasinu has successfully secured a spot in the play-offs of the National Club Championship, demonstrating remarkable progress in the Southern Zone qualifiers held over Friday and Saturday. The team topped Pool A after an impressive performance, beginning with a decisive 7-1 victory against Lami Rangers in their opening match on Friday, followed by a one-all draw with the Pacific Specialist Healthcare Combine Brothers on Saturday.
Coach and captain Nitan Kumar expressed pride in his team’s effort, emphasizing the collective spirit that led them to this achievement. “I’d like to thank the Almighty for the strength He has given us and the guidance for the team’s victory,” Kumar remarked. “It’s not a victory, it’s a draw, and we qualified for the next round. They did their part and gave their 100 percent.”
Their journey to the play-offs was fraught with challenges, as the team had to balance work commitments with their sporting ambitions. Kumar highlighted the difficulties they faced in securing adequate training grounds, compounded by many players being called up for district and national duties. “We would never gather together like a team,” he noted. The squad comprised eight futsal players from the national and Suva futsal teams alongside former district representatives.
Despite their success, Kumar acknowledged the need for further improvement as the team prepares for the next stage. “There is a lot of room for improvement; we are still learning, and we are not playing as a unit because most of the boys are working, so it’s hard to get the boys together,” he explained.
On a related note, the Combine Brothers are set to face Tailevu Naitasiri’s Police FC today, marking another crucial match in the ongoing tournament.
This successful qualification for the play-offs is a testament to FRIENDS United FC’s determination and resilience, and the team looks forward to building on their accomplishments as they advance in the championship. The camaraderie and commitment displayed by the players serve as an inspiration, showcasing the spirit of grassroots football in the region.
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