THE iconic 4R Stadium in Ba is set to become the official home ground for Bula FC, Fiji’s first-ever professional football club.
With the inaugural OFC Professional League less than a fortnight away, expect passionate local supporters to fill the 4R Stadium during round 5, scheduled from April 11 to 18, when the competition is hosted in Fiji.
Home-ground advantage is one of the most exciting and game-changing factors in professional sports.
If Bula FC is to emulate the success of the rugby franchise Fijian Drua, establishing a strong home base should be a top priority.
Lautoka’s Churchill Park has become the Drua’s fortress, boasting 10 wins from 12 matches. For Bula FC to transform Ba’s iconic 4R Stadium into their own fortress, the onus is on the fans.
Marquee signing and Fiji’s football sensation Roy Krishna has urged supporters to back the team, emphasising that their support will be pivotal in the club’s inaugural season.
“This is the first professional football club in the country, so we are asking our supporters to come out and back the boys and be the 12th man on the field,” he said.
Krishna understands the significance and boost that supporters bring during game time, and how their encouragement could be the inspiration the team needs.
He urges fans to come out in numbers, not only in Fiji but also in other countries where the team is expected to play.
“I’m just asking all Fijian supporters in Fiji and when we go to Auckland, Australia, and other places to support the boys, be our 12th man because we need them,” he explained.
The team will play three home matches in round 5 – first against PNG’s Hekari FC on Sunday, April 12, against South Melbourne FC on Wednesday, April 15; and Auckland FC on Saturday, April 18.
