Veteran defender Ame Votoniu scored a crucial equalizer in the second half as Nadi played to a 1-1 draw against Labasa in their Digicel Fiji Premier League Round 15 match at Prince Charles Park.
The game began with Labasa taking an early lead, courtesy of Solomon Islands player Tigi Molea, who scored just two minutes into the match. Nadi had opportunities to equalize, with young talents Apolosi Seru and Siotame Kubu missing key chances. Meanwhile, Labasa’s Christopher Wasasala, Melvin Mani, and Akeimi Ralulu saw their attempts thwarted on three occasions by Nadi goalkeeper Joela Biuvanua.
At halftime, Labasa was ahead 1-0, but Nadi gained momentum in the closing stages of the game. Nadi captain William Valentine orchestrated a significant attacking move that allowed Votoniu to leap over the Labasa defense and head the ball past goalkeeper Joji Vuakaca.
Following this match, Labasa stands at 29 points from 15 matches, maintaining their position in second place, while Nadi, now with 22 points, sits in fifth.