Extra Supermarket Labasa is putting the final touches on their preparations ahead of the 2025 Pacific Community Cup in New Zealand next week.
Coach Alvin Chand says the team has been training for the past three weeks, with a strong focus on midfield play, finishing attacks, and defensive play in the back third.
“We are [also] working hard on set pieces and moments of attack and defence,” Chand said, noting that the pitch conditions in New Zealand differ significantly from local grounds.
While full team training has been limited due to players like captain Christopher Wasasala being with the national squad, and others preparing for the Sukuna Bowl with the Police team, Chand remains confident.
“I have faith in my boys. They’ve delivered some great results this season, and the team bonding is great. We are hoping for a good outing in the tournament.”
The squad faces some injury challenges, with Anish Khem sidelined and Jitoko Vulava unavailable due to family commitments.
“Fitness is coming into shape for many boys, which is a positive sign,” Chand added.
Fans will be eager to watch key performers, including Rusiate Doidoi, Akeimi Ralulu, Ashnil Raju, Lekima Gonerau, and Sitiveni Rakai, each bringing experience and creativity to the squad.
The tournament runs from November 26-30 at Bill McAnally Park.
Chand is wary of traditional rivals Lautoka, adding that “any team that comes into a tournament is fully prepared, so we are taking every game as a challenge. Team cohesion, adaptation, and managing player injury and fatigue will be crucial for our results.”
The matches will be aired exclusively on Mai TV Livestream PPV. Viewers will see Fiji’s top district sides—including Ajay Traders Rewa, and Ba —clash with All-Star teams from Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. The broadcast will also feature the exciting U16 Youth Tournament, highlighting emerging talent from Fiji, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The Pacific Community Cup culminates with the final at 5:15 pm on Sunday, November 30.
Photo: File
