FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL
Defending champs Labasa, Nasinu clash today to decide on who qualify to the semis
Defending Punjas Battle of the Giants champions Labasa escaped with a 1-1 draw against Ba yesterday to keep their qaulifying chances alive.
The Babasiga Lions face giant killers Nasinu at 10am today in a decider clash in Group A while Ba must hold Suva to a draw to qualify.
Nasinu Football Association president Oneil Chand said they are confident of making it to the semifinals.
“It’s our never-say-die attitude that saw us come back to beat Suva 3-1.” he said.
Labasa coach Ronil Lal said they need to work on their recovery before taking on Nasinu.
Labasa took the lead 1-0 against Ba when Ilisoni Logaivau scored from the penalty spot.
Ba replied through a Samuela Drudru strike in the 59th minute for the draw.
Labasa’s Akeimi Ralulu and Savenaca Nakalevu won’t play today after being red-carded.
In Group B pending on the outcome of the Rewa vs Nadi clash last night, the group is still wide open.
Drug charges
The tournament has recorded its first positive drug test.
Fiji Football Association president Rajesh Patel confirmed this saying they could not reveal the name of the player until he was officially notified.
It is believed that it is a senior player from one of the top distructs and a Fiji rep.
“It is the first for the tournament and we hope it’s the last but the tournament is still not over,” Patel said.
“We have been testing three players for each match.
“Until the tournament ends I cannot say if there would be more,” Patel added.