Chelsea, Lions Debut

Two teams will make their debut in the Rooster National Club Championship (NCC) at Govind Park, Ba this weekend.
Chelsea FC from Nasinu and star-studded Nakasi Lions from Rewa will join Southern Zone teams Lokia United (Rewa), Bureta FC (Suva) and Civic FC (Suva) in the final playoff.
Chelsea FC secretary Amit Kumar said it was a privilege to play in the final playoff.
“We are very honoured to have qualified especially since it is our first time to even take part in an NCC since our club was formed in 1994,” Kumar said.
“The journey for us has not been easy as we have competed over the years and we are just overwhelmed and relieved.”
Kumar said they were aiming to get their players experienced so that they could develop football in Nasinu.
“This competition has been really tough for us but I do admire the boys for their dedication and hard work,” he said.
“Our boys need to step up and perform and learn as much as they can. We are not expecting anything in this tournament as we are keen to learn and be involved.
“Our ultimate aim is to get Nasinu players recognised to play for the country and I believe we are on the right track.”
Meanwhile, Fiji Football Association’s competition manager Amitesh Pal said with the new teams involved, fans can expect a tough competition.
“With the eight teams confirmed, it is clear that a tough but interesting tournament will be showcased this week,” Pal said.
“We are happy with how competitions have been and expect a good weekend of football.”
Nadi’s Namaka FC, Ba’s 4R Electrical and Lautoka’s City United have already qualified for the finals from the Western Division.
Southern Zone results: Waidova FC 0-1 Friends United FC, Koromakawa FC 1-3 Civic FC, Lokia FC 0-3 Chelsea FC, Nakasi Lions 3-0 Raralevu, Waidova FC 0-5 Lokia United FC, Bureta FC 4-0 Friends United FC, Raralevu Central FC 0-2 Chelsea FC, Bureta FC 0-0 Lokia United FC,
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