New faces, same goal for Babasiga Lions

Extra Supermarket Labasa FC may have several new faces, but coach Alvin Chand says the squad is already working toward the same target. The team is preparing for the 2026 Extra Battle of the Giants in Ba this weekend.

Chand said the new players have played together throughout the season, making it easier for him to integrate them into the side. “These are the new players we are banking on, and since they have played together for the whole of this season, it makes my job easy because majority of them are on the same rhythm.”

“

These are the new players we are banking on, and since they have played together for the whole of this season, it makes my job easy because majority of them are on the same rhythm.

The coach also welcomed Jerry Sam, a former national futsal coach, to the team. Chand said Sam’s professional-league experience and field expertise were adding value, while his training suited the style Labasa wanted to play.

“The boys are cooperating well with him,” Chand said, adding that Sam had adapted quickly. The 2026 Extra Battle of the Giants begins on Friday at the 4R Stadium Govind Park in Ba.

“

What he brings is the experience from pro-league, and an expert on the field, I would say, and we are glad to have him on board, the boys are cooperating well with him.