Football - Futuro squander three-goal lead against Mont Fleuri U18 |24 June 2020

 Futuro coach Steve Herbots said the pre-season friendly is "not a priority" as a much-changed Futuro team threw away a three-goal lead against Mont Fleuri in a recent friendly played at the Astro-turf pitch, Roche Caïman.

"The development is our priority and I make no apologies," he said, having made several changes ahead of the 3-3 draw against the Mont Fleuri under-18.

"It was never my intention to do anything other than protect the squad."

Goals from Matthew Rouillon (a double) and Joshua Clarisse had given the academy a comfortable 3-0 lead by 68th minute.

Mont Fleuri's strong and fast striker Imra Raherriniaina headed home to reduce the deficit (1-3) before the left winger Adrian Hoareau’s shot set up a thrilling finish. Mont Fleuri's striker Nerry Rose made it 3-3 from an off-side position in the very last second of the match, while the referee was not focused on game.

Futuro played the last few minutes of the match, when it was still 3-0, with a number of first time substitutes.

Coach Herbots added: "I can't sit here and try to give you a feeling that everything is equal in terms of how we look at development. Unfortunately for us and our players, the friendlies are not the priority.

"If we were in a more comfortable situation and had more players available it would be different, but we don't because we have a lengthy list players in exams at school."

Coach Steve Herbots wants to thank Mont Fleuri coach Christopher Sakapumba for this opportunity and plans are being made for a replay already. Both teams are open for more matches and can be contacted for the near future.

Contributed by Futuro Sport