Sila Central College U18 futsal team, despite being new to the sport, is proving to be a formidable underdog in the Southern futsal Championship.
The team, whose players typically focus on rugby and athletics, managed to secure a 1-1 draw against the more experienced Gospel High School team in their first match, at the Fiji FA academy in Vatuwaqa.
Coach Saimon Shaneel Lal expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, noting that this is their inaugural year in futsal soccer.
“The team is really looking good in the competition as this is our first year playing futsal soccer, looking at some really talented players,” said Lal.
“The players were unfamiliar with the sport, as evidenced by them bringing their regular soccer boots meant for grass pitches.
“This as an opportunity to introduce the boys to a new sport and help them develop their skills.”
“Most of the players are used to rugby and athletics, I believe exposing them to futsal will broaden their sporting horizons and foster a love for the game.
Despite facing tough competition, Lal is taking a cautious approach, focusing on one game at a time and learning from their mistakes.
Lal also expressed gratitude to the parents for their support in encouraging their children to participate in futsal.
