The Extra Supermarket Labasa football team returned to winning form with a 2-0 victory over Nasinu in their Digicel Fiji Premier League match at Subrail Park on Saturday. This win secured three crucial points, keeping Labasa in second place on the league standings.
Labasa’s striker Tigi Molea opened the scoring in the first half with a powerful shot from inside the 18-yard box, putting his team ahead 1-0. The lead was doubled in the 80th minute when young player Jone Lalagavesi scored, further solidifying the team’s position.
Coach Ravneel Pratap expressed satisfaction with the victory, emphasizing its importance as they aim to maintain their second-place status. “The players understood the significance of this match because our upcoming away games will be challenging,” he noted.
This win marked a rebound for Labasa, who had drawn their previous two matches against Nadi and Tailevu/Naitasiri. They are now set to travel to Viti Levu for a match against Ba in Round 17 of the DFPL.
Pratap remarked on the improved decision-making of his players, highlighting a reduction in risky passes compared to earlier games. “We didn’t play any risky passes at the back, and I’m pleased with our players’ choices. It’s now all about competing for the league title, especially since we’ve let ourselves down in some past matches. Maintaining distance from other teams, particularly Lautoka, is crucial,” he commented.
Lautoka currently occupies third place on the points table and has a strong chance of moving up.
Additionally, Pratap congratulated Lalagavesi for scoring in his debut match for Labasa in the DFPL. “For a young player, scoring in his first home game and getting significant playtime is a significant achievement,” he stated.
In other results from the league, Navua defeated Tailevu/Naitasiri 2-1, Suva triumphed over Nadroga 4-0, Ba edged Nadi 1-0, and Rewa won 2-0 against Lautoka.