The Extra Bula FC side is ready to embrace history and pressure as they prepare for their first-ever home match in the OFC Pro League against PNG Hekari FC at 4R Stadium, Govind Park, tomorrow night, says head coach Stéphane Auvray.
Speaking to the media yesterday, Auvray described the occasion as a special moment for the club and Fijian football.
“It’s very special because it’s the first time that Fiji’s first professional football team will be playing at home,” he said.
“I think the players are really looking forward to it. I hope the fans as well.”
The Fijian side heads into round five on the back of a strong Round Four performance, something Auvray believes has lifted confidence within the squad.
“We’re in a good space right now so hopefully we can give them a very good show and the outcome will be in our favour,” he said.
The coach said consistency remains the key focus as the team continues to grow in its inaugural campaign.
“I think it was good for us because we’ve been working really hard. Sometimes we didn’t get the points that we deserved, so it was good for the players to know that hard work pays off. We’re in a good mindset.”
With a short break during the international window, Auvray said the challenge now is to maintain momentum heading into a crucial home stretch.
“We had some good rest because our players didn’t play during the international dates. So hopefully we didn’t lose our momentum and we will start strong against Hekari.”
Despite Hekari sitting lower on the table, Auvray warned against complacency, stressing that every match in the competition demands full focus.
“Wherever the team stands it doesn’t really matter. Once you get on the field it’s 11 against 11. Every game is important.”
