Futsal league sets new trends

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Olivia Finau, sitting right, scored a goal for her team Carpenters Fiji against Paradise Beverages. Picture: SUPPLIED

The National Hockey Centre in Laucala Bay was a hive of activity as nine pool matches were played in the second phase of round one of the Ariston, Gokals, Whirlpool Southern Business House Futsal Soccer League on Tuesday evening.

With 40 teams including four women’s and veterans teams respectively, the event which will carry on for 14-weeks is all set to take five-a-side soccer to greater heights in the country.

The highlight match of the evening was between Carpenters Fiji and first time entrants Paradise Beverages as the former had the services of a female player – Olivia Finau in the open division and won by 6-0.

“In line with our theme, ‘A fight against NCDs and giving equal playing field’, Carpenters Fiji is the first team to introduce a female player in the open division which is dominated by men,” event organiser Alan Kumar of Bula Events Group said.

“All teams came prepared in the last two outings and the competition is expected to get tougher as we progress into round two next week,” Mr Kumar added.

“Even the women’s division competition is gaining momentum and this is a very good opportunity for female futsal lovers to showcase their skills and talents.”

Carpenters Fiji team captain Mohammed Mustak Khan said while they are excited about their first win, the team will now focus on the next game ahead.

“We will not be taking any team lightly and will treat each game as the final match,” Mr Khan said.

He said it was an honour to have a female member in their team and has urged other teams to consider the same.

“Olivia played really well and even scored a goal against Paradise Beverages. This goes to show the hidden potential our female futsal players have.”

Round two (phase one) of the pool games will be held at the same venue on Tuesday next week.

RESULTS: – Court 2- BULA EVENTS 2-SUPERCHARGED TWO 2; WAF 1-PCAL 4; INTERGROUP 5-DULUX FIJI 0. Court 3 – HFC 1-PWC 3; PARADISE BEVERAGES 0-CARPENTERS FIJI 6; FIJI PORTS 0-USP 2. Court 4 – SUPERCHARGED ONE 1-SWIRE SHIPPING 5 (W); GLOBAL CUSTOMS 3-FIJICARE 1; BSP 0-EXTRA 1.

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