BY CHRIS ALEX
CENTRAL Coast FC captain, Philip Mango, has expressed excitement and confidence ahead of the highly anticipated OFC Club Championship, set to kick off this weekend at Lawson Tama Stadium.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with RAW SPORTS, Mango shared the team’s enthusiasm about hosting the prestigious tournament for the first time in the country’s history.
“On behalf of our players, we are really happy to host this year’s OFC Club Championship. It has never been hosted in our country before, so it’s a proud moment for us,” Mango stated. “However, we know it won’t be easy. It will be very challenging as we will compete against the best clubs from across the Pacific.”
Mango highlighted the team’s extensive preparations, which began last year and resumed after the festive break on January 6. Despite the absence of several experienced players who have moved to Australia, he remains optimistic about the squad’s potential.
“We have some very young players in the team, and this is a great opportunity for them to shine,” he said. “We won’t take this as a big setback; rather, we will give our best with this young side. The boys are looking good and ready—we just need to stay mentally prepared and focused.”
The captain also made a heartfelt appeal to the fans, urging them to come out in numbers and support the team throughout the tournament.
“I call upon our supporters and fans to come and cheer for the team. We really need your support and prayers. Stay behind the team and motivate the players as we play in front of our home crowd.”
The OFC Club Championship promises to be a thrilling competition, and Central Coast FC is determined to make a strong impression on home soil.
