EXTRA Supermarket Labasa FC is looking to regain their momentum in their upcoming match against Tailevu Naitasiri in round 14 of the Digicel Fiji Premier League. Following a disappointing 4-2 defeat to Lautoka in round 13, the team is focused on securing a win, particularly on their home ground.
Head coach Ravneel Pratap expressed optimism about their preparations, while acknowledging the morale drop after the recent loss. “The team faced challenges while playing in their hometown, but they are eager to bounce back and not let their fans and supporters down,” Pratap stated.
He pointed out that defense remains a primary concern, but they have been working diligently on that aspect throughout the week and feel ready for the challenge against Tailevu Naitasiri. Although they will be missing three key players – Taniela Waqa, Christopher Wasasala, and Akeimi Ralulu – due to injuries, the team is confident in their younger players’ abilities and hopes to deliver a strong performance.
“We know Naitasiri will come prepared, as they aim to escape the relegation zone, while we are competing to move up the table,” Pratap noted. The head coach also expressed eagerness to play at home and urged Labasa fans to come out in large numbers to support the team.
Labasa had previously been challenging league leaders Rewa for the top spot but fell behind after their loss to Lautoka. In contrast, Tailevu Naitasiri is keen to earn points as recent defeats have placed them in the lower tier of the standings. They are aware of the challenge ahead but have demonstrated their potential to cause upsets earlier in the season.
In other matches of the Digicel Fiji Premier League today, Suva will take on Nasinu at 3 PM at the Uprising Sports Complex in Pacific Harbour, while Nadi will host Lautoka at 7 PM at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Two fixtures are scheduled for tomorrow: Rewa will face Flowserve Engineering & Pump Supplies Navua FC, and Rooster Chicken Ba FC will play against Nadroga.
After 13 rounds of the competition, Rewa leads the standings with 30 points, followed by Labasa with 27 points. Lautoka has accumulated 22 points, while Nadi trails with 21 points.