Blues start with victory
THE Blues Fan Club (Australia) Lautoka football side edged Active Construction Navua 3-2 in its second match at the Vodafone Fiji FACT at Labasa’s Subrail Park yesterday.
Lautoka started the match well with a goal from Dave Radrigai in the 11th minute.
Radrigai collected a loose ball inside the Navua penalty box and fired a low drive across Navua goalkeeper Josaia Ratu for the first goal.
Sekove Finau, who received red cards against Navua at the Battle of the Giants tournament and Vodafone Premier League, headed in the second goal from a Malakai Rakula corner in the 41st minute.
Navua pressed after conceding two goals and were rewarded as Jesoni Takala pulled one back for Navua in injury time of the first spell.
The teams rested with Lautoka leading 2-1 at halftime.
Both teams had a number of opportunities in the second spell but failed to find the back of the net until the 81st minute when Avineel Nand tapped in a well-timed cross from Rakula.
Navua did not give up as substitute Suliano Masidoli closed the gap in the dying stages of the match. Lautoka coach Anginesh Prasad was pleased with the performance of his team.
“We knew Navua will come out firing and considering the ground conditions, any team will be happy with a win. I am impressed with my young players whom we are trying to bring into picture and give them good game time,” Prasad said.
Navua captain Vinit Chand said while it was disappointing to lose, his team played good football.
“I'm proud of the team. Some of the young players have picked up when they’re given a chance. This tournament will set a good platform for our next season,” Chand said.
Navua plays Nadi at 12 midday today while Lautoka battles Suva at 4pm.
Teams:
Lautoka - Joela Biuvanua, Epeli Leiroti, Zibraaz Sahib, Aporosa Yada, Dave Radrigai, Malakai Rakula, Samuela Gavo, Edward Aaron, Sekvoe Finau, Jone Vono Junior, Kolinio Sivoki (C).
Navua - Josiaia Ratu, Seveci Rokotakala, Apisai Smith, Thomas Dunn, Dorsant Naidu, Brian Charitar, Vineet Chand (C), Mosese Balenagaga, Vinal Prasad, Matthew Charitar, Jesoni Takala.