Labasa to adopt a winning culture

Beating Nadi at Subrail Park today will push Labasa closer to a possible berth at the OFC Champions League.

The Babasiga Lions need to beat visitors Nadi in their Digicel Fiji Premier League to move up to second spot of the points table.

Unlike previous years, Labasa had a good start to the season, which boosted their chances of qualifying.

Labasa coach, Ravneel Pratap, said his players are aware of the task at hand. Pratap said players were training hard to rectify their mistakes and maximize their goal scoring chances.

“This is our priority right now,” Pratap said.

He was disappointed with the way their match against Tailevu/Naitasiri was controlled. Labasa held on to win 2-1.

“I’m hopeful of having a competent referee appointed this time.”

Pratap said the team must adopt a winning culture. “A culture of winning helps teams prosper and we must adapt to building consistency after each round of the league,” he said.

Seasoned players like Christopher Wasasala and Ruisate Doidoi would lead the attacking line against Nadi.

Pratap said the home ground advantage meant they must win to get the three points so they can move up the points table.

A win over Nadi on Saturday would propel the Northerners to second place on 11 points ahead of Nadi (10).

Fans were encouraged to support the side and not criticise when things don’t go their way.

“Mistakes happen and it is part of football, but to demoralise our players affects their on-game performance,” he said.

FACT preps

Pratap highlighted with the Digicel Fiji FACT tournament to kick off next month, they must win to maintain the momentum.

“We saved ourselves by a last minute penalty save against Lautoka in our last home game, but, we must avoid close game affair.”

He said it is difficult to play catch-up football and they must start strongly with early goals and maintain it for the rest of the game.