THE Tagimoucia Nadi FC president Mohammed Rafiq has praised his young side for their determination after producing a spirited performance against the Stratum Construction Rewa FC 1-1 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi on Sunday.
Rafiq said the players gave everything on the field and deserved recognition for their commitment.
“Our players played their hearts out. I must thank my new management and my players for giving their efforts towards a very senior team in Fiji. I must thank them for their brilliant performance,” he said.
Despite the result, Rafiq believes the team remains on track to achieve its main objective of qualifying for the Inter District Championship (IDC).
He said the immediate focus was on the Battle of the Giants (BOG), where the side hoped to build momentum with positive results in the coming weeks.
“We are preparing for BOG first and we aim to win a few more games in the coming weeks to qualify for IDC,” he said.
The club is also set for a major change with experienced football administrator and coach Babs Khan expected to take charge this week after serving as team director for Tailevu Naitasiri.
Rafiq said Khan’s appointment would provide the leadership needed to lift the Green Machine.
“Babs Khan is a Nadi man. He is a strong man who can lead, who can guide and take us forward, which we are looking forward to.”
While acknowledging there are areas that require improvement, Rafiq is confident the coaching staff and senior players will address the team’s shortcomings.
“We are quite adamant on working on our weaknesses. I am sure my team management with the senior players will work on it and try and improve on the weaknesses.”
Rafiq reserved special praise for the club’s sponsors, saying their financial backing has been instrumental in keeping the young side competitive this season.
“A special thanks to our main sponsor, Tagimoucia Grog and Minimart, and co-sponsors Bula Rental and Tours, AAAK Group, Australian Pacific Management Training, Vinay Vikash Hire Truck Services and Signz Creation and Supplies for their continued commitment to the team.”
