In a thrilling encounter at Prince Charles Park, veteran defender Ame Votoniu scored a crucial second-half equalizer, helping Nadi secure a 1-1 draw against Labasa in the Digicel Fiji Premier League Round 15.
Labasa started strong, taking the lead just two minutes into the match thanks to a goal from Solomon Islands import Tigi Molea. Despite several opportunities, Nadi’s young stars Apolosi Seru and Siotame Kubu failed to convert their chances into goals. Meanwhile, Labasa’s Christopher Wasasala, Melvin Mani, and Akeimi Ralulu were all thwarted multiple times by Nadi’s goalkeeper Joela Biuvanua.
Though Labasa maintained a 1-0 advantage at halftime, Nadi shifted the momentum in the latter stages of the game. An attacking play led by captain William Valentine culminated in Votoniu’s powerful header, which evaded Labasa’s goalkeeper Joji Vuakaca, leveling the match.
As a result, Labasa stands at 29 points after 15 matches, holding onto second place in the league, while Nadi sits in fifth with 22 points.