EXTRA Supermarket Labasa FC is focused on regaining 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 eager to secure a victory, especially while playing at home.
Head coach Ravneel Pratap shared his confidence in the team’s preparations despite the morale dip after the loss to Lautoka. “The team faced challenges while playing at home, but they are motivated to bounce back and not let down their fans and supporters,” Pratap stated.
He acknowledged that the defense had been a major concern and emphasized that they have been working on it during the week in anticipation of the Tailevu Naitasiri match. Pratap also mentioned that although three key players—Taniela Waqa, Christopher Wasasala, and Akeimi Ralulu—are sidelined due to injuries, the team remains optimistic. They are counting on their younger players to deliver a strong performance.
“We are aware that Naitasiri will be coming in fully prepared, as they are trying to escape the relegation zone while we aim to climb the standings,” he added. Pratap encouraged Labasa fans to come out in large numbers to support the team during the home game.
Labasa had been closely trailing league leaders Rewa in the standings but fell behind following last week’s loss to Lautoka. On the other hand, Tailevu Naitasiri is looking to earn points as they currently sit at the bottom of the table due to recent defeats. They recognize the challenge of facing Labasa at their home ground but are confident in their ability to secure an upset, as they have demonstrated on several occasions this season.
In other matches of the Digicel Fiji Premier League today, Suva will face 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. Tomorrow will feature two more matches, with Rewa taking on Flowserve Engineering & Pump Supplies Navua FC and Rooster Chicken Ba FC going up against Nadroga.
After 13 rounds, Rewa leads the standings with 30 points, followed by Labasa with 27 points. Lautoka sits at 22 points, while Nadi has 21 points.