THE return of Fiji’s overseas-based and regional campaigners has added fresh firepower to this year’s Bic Fiji FACT – and Ba Football Club president Praneel Dayal believes it has pushed the competition to another level.
As the tournament heads into its business end in Labasa, Dayal says the presence of players coming back from the Bula Boys set-up and the OFC competitions has raised the intensity, quality and expectations across all districts.
The impact has been immediate.
Matches have been tighter, faster and more physical, with local players now forced to fight harder for starting spots.
“We have seen improvements and the competition has become really competitive,” Dayal said.
“Once those boys came back into the teams, the standards were high.”
Dayal said the return of experienced players had created healthy competition within camps, lifting the performance of the entire squad.
“The players were looking for their positions once they were back. That’s what makes the competition stronger.”
For Ba, the return of key players such as Nabil Begg and Ryan Naresh has provided a timely boost, with both players bringing match fitness and valuable experience back into the side.
Dayal said players returning from OFC and professional competitions came back mentally sharper and physically ready, which has had a flow-on effect throughout the tournament.
“They were mentally and physically fit when they arrived back at camp and they have lifted the expectations,” he said.
The increased quality has not only strengthened Fiji FACT, but Dayal believes it is a positive sign for the wider growth of local football.
With the semi-finals now set, he says the higher standard being displayed is proof Fiji football is moving in the right direction.
“This is adding another level to football in Fiji right now,” he said.
