The Extra Supermarket Labasa football team returned to form with a 2-0 victory over Nasinu in their Digicel Fiji Premier League (DFPL) match at Subrail Park on Saturday. This win allowed Labasa to secure the second position on the DFPL points table.
Labasa’s striker Tigi Molea opened the scoring in the first half, firing a powerful shot from inside the 18-yard box to give his team a 1-0 lead. The young talent, Jone Lalagavesi, further increased Labasa’s advantage with a goal in the 80th minute.
Labasa coach Ravneel Pratap expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of the victory to maintain their standing on the points table. “The players understood the significance of this match as the upcoming away games will be challenging,” he stated.
The team bounced back from a disappointing 1-1 draw against Nadi and Tailevu/Naitasiri in their previous outings. They now prepare to travel to Viti Levu for a Round 17 match against Ba.
Pratap noted an improvement in his players’ decision-making on the field compared to prior games, where errant passes were more frequent. “We avoided risky passes at the back, and I’m pleased with the players’ choices. It’s all about competing for the league title now, and we have faltered in some earlier matches.”
He highlighted the importance of maintaining a lead over rival teams like Lautoka, who are currently third and in contention to move up the rankings.
Pratap also congratulated Lalagavesi for scoring on his debut match in the DFPL. “Playing his first game at home, getting significant playing time, and scoring a goal is a significant achievement for the young player,” he remarked.
The results from the matches are as follows: Labasa 2-0 Nasinu, Tailevu/Naitasiri 1-2 Navua, Suva 4-0 Nadroga, Ba 1-0 Nadi, Rewa 2-0 Lautoka.