Friends United team kicked off the Dayal Sawmillers National Club Championship 2025 with a stunning victory, defeating Lami Rangers with a 7-1 win in their opening match at the Fiji FA academy grounds in Vatuwaqa yesterday.
According to head coach Nitan Kumar, the team’s goal was to begin the competition on a high note, and they successfully achieved that objective.
Despite facing obstacles due to players’ work and family commitments, the team managed to find time to train and prepare adequately.
“Our preparations were not much, was most of the players have work and family commitment, we use to find time to train and prepare for this competition,” said Kumar.
Acknowledging the importance of a strong start in a competition, Kumar emphasized the need to continue focusing on one game at a time.
The team plans to strengthen their defense in preparation for their upcoming match on Sunday, recognising the areas in which they need improvement.
Kumar commended the players for their hard work and emphasized the importance of continuous improvement.
Meanwhile, 4R FC of Ba made a strong start to their NCC West Zone campaign on Day One, topping the standings after a convincing 3–0 win over Downtown FC of Nadroga at the Fiji FA Academy Ground in Ba yesterday.
From the opening whistle, 4R FC asserted their authority with disciplined defending and a sharp attacking structure. Their control of possession paid off midway through the first half when Kini Madigi broke the deadlock, giving the Ba side a well-deserved 1–0 lead heading into the break.
The momentum continued in the second spell as 4R FC maintained pressure on the Downtown defence. Nabil Begg doubled the advantage with a composed finish before Christopher Moses sealed the victory with their third goal.
In the earlier fixture, Lautoka Rays United FC and Army Delta FC of Nadi played out a 1–1 draw. Rays United scored first before Army Delta equalised in the second half, with both teams showing strong discipline and intensity throughout the match.
