Nadroga finds the going tough in league bid

THE Nadroga football team is in dire straits after the completion of five rounds of Digicel Premier League football competition.

The Stallions only have two points and languish at the bottom of the points table.

A concerned NFA president Mohammed Ali said the players were hurting from the big loss suffered against Rewa last week.

“We are keeping a low profile for our match tomorrow (today),” he said.

“The boys have been constantly reminded to give their 100 per cent because we need to start winning games.”

Ali said the level of competition witnessed in the top-tier was way higher than the senior division matches they were accustomed to for the past five years.

“Definitely playing at the premier level is different because of the intensity of the matches including the skilful and talented players we face, week-in, weekout. Majority of the boys wearing the gold jumper are those who represented the side for the last couple of years. We are very concerned at our standings in the DPL currently,” he said.

“The players and the coach are working hard so that we don’t get demoted.”

Ali said Lautoka would be a tough team to beat.

“They are the hosts and will enjoy a good crowd support; Lautoka is a class team also because of a number of national representatives in the side.

“We will be the underdogs, no doubt, but the boys have promised to give their all tomorrow (today).”

It is envisaged the side will be captained by former national football striker Osea Vakatalesau, who will be ably assisted by current national football squad member, midfielder Tomasi Tuicakau.

A host of seasoned footballers are expected to feature for the stallions such as Gerard Voi, Waisea Tale, Sunny Deol, Zain Ali, Jonas Naceva, Paulo Buke, John Rounds, former Lautoka representative Leisari Qalica and talented Krishneel Dutt.

The Moshin’s Insulation-sponsored outfit battles against favourites and current DPL leader’s Lautoka today at Churchill Park.

The match will kick off at 3pm.