The iconic 4R Stadium in Ba is set to officially become the home ground for Bula FC, marking a significant milestone as Fiji’s first-ever professional football club prepares for its debut in the inaugural OFC Professional League. The excitement is already building among local supporters who are expected to fill the stadium during round 5, taking place between April 11 and 18, when Fiji hosts part of the competition.
Establishing a strong home base is crucial for Bula FC if they hope to mirror the success of the rugby franchise Fijian Drua, which has turned Lautoka’s Churchill Park into a formidable stronghold with an impressive record of 10 wins from 12 matches. The team recognizes the importance of their fans in transforming the 4R Stadium into their own fortress.
Fiji’s football sensation, Roy Krishna, a marquee signing for the club, is calling on supporters to rally behind the team, stressing that fan support will play a crucial role in their inaugural season. “This is the first professional football club in the country, so we are asking our supporters to come out and back the boys and be the 12th man on the field,” he affirmed.
Krishna acknowledges the power of encouragement from the stands, underscoring how vital it is for the team to draw inspiration from their fans. He also urges supporters not just from Fiji but also from abroad, as the team is scheduled to play in locations such as Auckland and Australia.
Bula FC will kick off their home matches during round 5, with the first game slated against PNG’s Hekari FC on Sunday, April 12, followed by fixtures against South Melbourne FC on Wednesday, April 15, and Auckland FC on Saturday, April 18. The anticipation is palpable, as Bula FC embarks on this new chapter in Fijian football, with hopes high for a passionate turnout that could inspire the team to success.