NICHOLAS Franklin is quickly finding his feet with the Junior Bula Boys after making a strong start to his international campaign in Samoa.
The 18-year-old midfielder was named player of the match after helping Fiji defeat Vanuatu 7-2 in its opening match of the OFC under-19 Men’s Championship.
Franklin was raised in Brisbane, Australia, but has a strong connection to Fiji through his mother who is from Suva.
His father is Irish, giving the 18-year-old midfielder Fijian and Irish Heritage.
He developed his football in Brisbane and currently plays for Eastern Suburbs, before earning his opportunity with the Junior Bula Boys.
Representing Fiji has therefore been an opportunity for him to combine his football ambitions with his family connection.
“I live in Australia, but my mum is from Fiji, and being able to represent her heritage is really special for our family, for the ones watching at home, and for my mum and dad here as well.”
His introduction to the team has proved fruitful, with Franklin scoring Fiji’s final goal in stoppage time to complete a convincing opening victory.
However, the midfielder said the performance was the result of the understanding built within the squad during their preparation.
“It’s been a long journey so far. The boys had a four-week camp in Fiji, being away from our families and everything. It’s been long, but we’ve had each other and it showed in that game,” Franklin said.
Franklin was surprised to receive the individual award, believing several of his teammates were equally deserving after Fiji’s seven-goal performance.
“It’s good to get player of the match. Honestly, I didn’t think I was going to get it. A lot of the boys in our team put in a good shift and a few of the definitely deserved it.”
His inclusion has also added dimension to a squad made up pf players from Fiji and overseas.
Franklin now turns his attention to Fiji’s next assignment against New Zealand.
He expects the match to provide a far greater test but believes the Junior Bula Boys can take confidence from their opening performance.
“Everyone knows it’s going to be a big game for us. They’re a good team, so we’ve just got to go in there with our heads down and hopefully put in a good result for us and get the job done.”
For Franklin, his first tournament appearance has already provided an encouraging start, but the midfielder knows the bigger challenge is still ahead.
