BULA FC have taken a decisive step off the pitch following their 2–0 defeat to Vanuatu United FC, drawing a clear line between passionate support and personal abuse.
In a public statement, the club urged supporters to keep online discussions respectful, warning that offensive language would be removed and repeat offenders risk being banned from its social media platforms.
“We encourage and appreciate your comments and discussions but let’s keep the conversation respectful! Please remember, any offensive language will be removed. Vinaka.”
The directive makes Bula FC the first professional side in the eight-team OFC Professional League to signal firm moderation measures toward its followers.
Frustration boils over
The move comes amid mounting frustration over the club’s form.
With just one win and a draw to show from their campaign so far, supporters have grown increasingly vocal particularly in their criticism of coach Stephan Auvray and the team’s tactical approach.
Critics argue that despite dominating possession, Bula FC continue to struggle in front of goal a flaw that has proven costly in a highly competitive league environment.
Neel Chand pointed to the physical intensity of the OFC competition, noting the presence of strong, high-stamina Pacific Island players and questioning the continued reliance on veteran forward Roy Krishna.
“He is a legend of Fiji soccer, but we should also give opportunities to younger attackers who can contribute more to finishing,” Chand said. “We have more capable finishers back in Fiji.”
He also raised concerns about transition speed and decision-making, singling out Setareki Hughes for holding onto the ball too long and slowing attacking momentum.
Sharlin Nand echoed the sentiment, urging the club to “accept the truth,” arguing that assembling top talent from districts across Fiji and overseas means little without results.
Others attempted to temper the criticism by pointing out that Bula FC are a first-year professional outfit and that results take time.
That argument, however, was quickly rebuked online, with fans noting that nearly all teams in the competition are in their inaugural professional season, yet several are already producing stronger performances and better results.
Balancing passion and protection
While the criticism reflects genuine supporter concern, the club’s stance highlights a growing challenge in modern football how to preserve open dialogue without allowing online hostility to spiral into abuse.
For Bula FC, the message is clear: debate is welcome, but disrespect will not be tolerated.
And as the saying goes, perhaps uniquely familiar in Fiji — when opinions are polished with a silver lining, silence is often considered golden.
Whether this firm moderation policy fosters healthier discussion or is perceived as an attempt to quiet dissent remains to be seen.
Bula FC sits on 7th place on the league standings.
