Preparations have come to an end as Ba soccer fans await the opening Group B match of the 2008/2009 Oceania League this afternoon between Ba and debutants, Koloale Football Club of the Solomon Islands.
The hosts who have featured in two previous eliminations will enter the match as favourites despite injuries to some key players.
Sharp shooter Maciu Dunadamu and rugged defender Manueli Kalou will miss the encounter after failing to pass the medical examination earlier in the week.
The oppositions, who carry a proven record in their domestic competition and have beaten Brisbane Wolves and are expected to be worthy opponents to the ‘Men In Black.’ Real battle is expected in the midfield zone where both teams seem to have the experience and flair.
Ba has the likes the Malakai Tiwa, Roneel Kumar, Pita Bolatoga, Shamil Rao and Ronald Chandra while Koloale has Henry Koto, Henry Fa’arado, Peter Taloga and Oscar Sara.
Ba coach Yogendra Dutt said the team has trained well and was ready for the visiting islanders. “We respect the Koloale Football Club and are rating them high since they are the champs of Solomon Islands,” said Dutt.
“Despite injuries, Ba will field the best line up to settle for nothing less than a win in the encounter.
“I am urging all Ba fans to come out in full support, wear black and back the boys with all the lung power from the stands.
The match which kicks off at 3pm will be controlled by Vanuatu’s Lencie Fred.