FIJI Football Association chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf says crowd turnout at Subrail Park in Labasa during the Fiji FACT was lower in the final day, but the tournament still recorded strong support overall.
Mr Mohammed said Labasa crowds are usually made up of mainly local supporters, unlike bigger centres such as Suva where fans from many districts are based.
“Instead of disappointing, like if it was in Nasinu or Suva, the crowd would have come in because there are people from all districts there,” he said.
Despite the low turn out, he said there was a sell out on Saturday.
” In Labasa only a limited number of people followed their teams, which is expected.
“There was no crowd, but yesterday it was a sell-out about 7,000 people. So we are always happy with that.”
He said the matches in the last two days were competitive, with several games going into extra time, showing good fitness and preparation from the teams.
“The performance from yesterday showed extra time on both sides again today. It shows the fitness levels and preparation.”
He also praised the teams for their effort, especially Navua, who improved as the tournament went on despite travelling for matches.
“Both teams stayed back and trained here, so the players were fresh.
“Navua, although they travelled back and forth, the players showed improvement with every match.
He said football tournament winners was always decided by preparation and performance on the field.
“This is football, the best team at the end, the best-prepared team wins.”
