Vodafone Premier League champions Lautoka and runner-up Ba were handed $50,000 each to help in their preparations for the OFC Champions League set to start in February.

Vodafone Fiji had provided $75,000 towards the preparation while Fiji Football Association added an extra $25,000.

While handing over the cheques yesterday, Fiji FA chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf announced that this year’s format had been changed whereby the second placed team in each pool will also play in the newly included quarterfinals.

The quarterfinals, up to the final will be played on a home and away basis.
PROUD SPONSOR

Vodafone Manager West Antionio Kitione said they had always been a proud sponsor in the country.

“All we can do is to wish them all the best. With the added talent around the country, soccer fans and players would like to wish Ba and Lautoka all the best for this years’ OFC and also the other teams that will take part in this years’ premier league as well.”

Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel said this was something Fiji FA and Vodafone hope to continue, and this gave the teams a chance to qualify through the Vodafone Premier League.

MORALE BOOSTER

Lautoka FA president Abdul Kadar said Vodafone no doubt contributed to the growth of sports in the country over the years.

“Lautoka FA is proud to be associated with Vodafone and no doubt the funds received from Vodafone today will immensely contribute towards our campaign.”

Ba FA president Rishi Kumar said while Ba had participated eight times, with Lautoka, Nadi, Suva and Rewa, none of them had come out victors.

“With the quarterfinals, semifinals and final all home and away basis, this would be an added advantage to all of us.

“Vodafone is always there to help and have taken up the role to sponsor this year’s champions’ league.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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