Lautoka secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory against Navua in the opening match of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship at Churchill Park this evening.
The hosts started strongly, with Saula Waqa and Sitiveni Cavuilagi finding the net in quick succession, giving Lautoka a 2-0 lead at halftime. The challenging underfoot conditions posed difficulties for both teams throughout the match.
Navua found hope when a long cross from Jared Rongolisua from 40 yards was ruled a goal by the assistant referee, despite Lautoka goalkeeper Benaminio Matainaqara’s attempt to catch the ball.
Lautoka’s situation worsened when Sakaraia Naisua received a red card for a second booking, leaving the team with ten players.
Despite their efforts to equalize, Navua was unable to score, and Lautoka’s top scorer, Sairusi Nalaubu, put the game out of reach with a solo goal during injury time.
Navua will face Suva in their next match at 2 PM tomorrow, while Lautoka is set to play Labasa at 8 PM.