Ba FC achieved a significant milestone by moving up in the Extra Premier League standings after an impressive 3-0 victory over their neighbors Lautoka at the Fiji FA Academy Ground in Namosau. This victory marks a crucial turnaround for Ba, who previously occupied the ninth position in the league. The team, coached by Ronil Kumar, needed this success to enhance their chances of qualifying for the upcoming 2025 BIC Fiji FACT tournament.
The match began slowly, with neither team managing to score in the first half. However, following the break, Ba seized control, launching an attacking effort that resulted in three unanswered goals. The turning point came in the 69th minute when Penisoni Tirau converted a penalty to put Ba in the lead. Shortly after, Peceli Sukabula doubled the advantage before youngster Penaia Nagatalevu capped off the night with a third goal in the 84th minute.
Despite the defeat, Lautoka faced additional challenges as they lost midfielder Sitiveni Cavuilagi to a red card during the match. This loss impacted Lautoka’s performance severely, leading them to slip into the ninth position with only three points from six matches.
With this victory, Ba now sits with five points after five matches, showcasing their potential and resilience after previously enduring a tough 4-2 loss to Lautoka in an earlier encounter. This recent win could be a turning point for Ba, boosting their morale and paving the way for further success as the league progresses.
Ba’s starting lineup for the match included Misiwani Nairube, Kalaveti Sivoi, Ilaisa Nayasi (C), Peceli Sukabula, Penisoni Tirau, Julius Suava, Penaia Nagatalevu, Sailasa Naicegu, Sailasa Ratu, Samuela Navoce, and Joeli Navalawa. For Lautoka, the lineup included Isikeli Sevanaia, Epeli Leiroti, Zibraaz Sahib, Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Apisalome Ravouvou, Sekove Luma, Manasa Nawakula, Kishan Sami (C), Muni Shivam Naidu, Saula Waqa, and Poasa Bainivalu.
This performance by Ba demonstrates their capacity to bounce back from setbacks, giving fans hope for an exciting remainder of the season.
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