Babasiga Lions ready for Suva in today’s Battle opener
Star studded Suva side a threat in Labasa’s title defence campaign
Defending Punjas Battle of the Giants champions Labasa are geared up for today’s opener against Suva at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The Babasiga Lions have opted to keep a low profile going into the tournament knowing that Suva will be tough with the likes of Christopher Wasasala, Filipe Baravilala, Remueru Tekiata and Ravinesh Karan Singh leading the charge. Labasa coach Ronil Lal said it would be tough to defend the title but they were doing their best during training.
“Players are very positive in training and the team spirit is high,” he said.
Lal indicated that turnout to their daily training sessions had been overwhelming.
“We have been working hard to do well in our group, also we have to improve on over finishing and defence as well.”
Lal said the first game was always a tough one and they really have to prepare well for the game.
He said Suva were a good side but they have a plan on how to tackle them.
The Lions are going to rely on strikers Ashnil Raj, Apenisa Anare and Siotame Kubu to do the damage upfront with veteran Taniela Waqa leading their defence. He is going to be supported by reliable defenders Atonio Tuivuna, Akeimi Ralulu and Ilisoni Logaivau.
Lal said the B.O.G would be a good preparation ground for them before the second round of the Vodafone Premier League gets underway.
The Northerners are targeting a top two finish to qualify for the OFC Champions League.
The Labasa versus Suva clash kicks off at 2pm.
Labasa squad
Akuila Mateisuva, Lino Iiesa, Kritesh Prasad, Sitiveni Rakai, Vikrant Chandra, Nemani Dolodai, Atonio Tuivuna, Melvin Mani, Rohan Nath, Ilisoni Lolaivau, Ashnil Raju,Ratu Apenisa Anare, Akeimi Ralulu, Ilisoni Logaivau, Rajiv Stephen Sharma, Lekima Gonerau, Siotame Kubu,Taniela Waqa, Taniela Rakariva, Mohammed Muzakkil, Mohammed Alam.