Firstouch FC will have to navigate the playoffs for a place in the Round of 16 of the RAK/BDFA League after finishing third in Group phase of the Ojo Zone 2 competition.
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The academy side ended their five-game group campaign with three wins and two defeats, collecting nine points from a possible 15.
They scored 10 goals and conceded eight, leaving them with a +2 goal difference.
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Firstouch FC finished level on points with Brilliant Sport FA, but missed out on automatic qualification because of an inferior goal difference. Leads topped the group with 10 points.
The team signed off the group stage in style on Friday with an entertaining 5-3 victory over Budu Elites FA.
The result provided an important confidence boost as Firstouch now prepare for the playoffs, where another victory will be required if they are to keep their Round of 16 hopes alive.
Sossou: We have to improve
Firstouch head coach Michael Amaze Sossou says his players have shown encouraging signs during the group stage but must improve ahead of the playoffs.
“It has been a good campaign, although we would have preferred to qualify automatically,” Sossou said.
“The boys have shown character and commitment throughout the group stage. We have scored 10 goals, which shows the quality we have going forward, but conceding eight is something we need to work on.
“The playoffs will be different. Every game will be important and there will be no room for mistakes. We have to stay focused, work hard and be more disciplined.”
Sossou believes Friday’s 5-3 win can give his players momentum heading into the next stage.
“Winning our final group game was important for the confidence of the players. We now have to carry that confidence into the playoffs.
“We believe in the team and we believe we can progress. But we have to work for it.”
Atamah calls for hard work
Academy chairman Vicent Atamah has challenged the players to remain focused after narrowly missing out on automatic qualification.
Atamah praised the team’s efforts but insisted the players cannot afford to relax at this stage of the competition.
“The boys have done well so far and deserve credit for their commitment,” Atamah said.
“However, the job is not finished. Missing out on automatic qualification should not discourage them. Instead, it should motivate them to work even harder.
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“The playoffs give us another opportunity to achieve our objective, so the players must remain disciplined, focused and united.”
Atamah also urged the squad to maintain its work ethic both on and off the pitch.
“We believe in these boys and in the work being done by the coaching staff. They have the ability to go far, but talent alone is not enough.
“They must continue to work hard, listen to their coaches and give everything whenever they step on the pitch.”
What next?
Firstouch FC now turn their attention to the playoffs, knowing victory is essential if they are to reach the Round of 16.
After a group campaign which produced three wins, 10 goals and nine points, the academy side will hope their strong finish against Budu Elites can provide the platform for another decisive performance.
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The target is clear: win the playoff and keep the Round of 16 dream alive.
