Host team Lautoka secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Navua in a tense opening match of Group A at the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) held at Churchill Park.
Coached by Shivam Raj, Lautoka started strongly, putting pressure on Navua and netting two goals within a quick span. Saula Waqa opened the scoring in the 26th minute, skillfully converting a free-kick taken by Zibraaz Sahib. Just two minutes later, midfielder Sitiveni Cavuilagi extended Lautoka’s lead by chipping the ball into an unguarded net, taking advantage of goalkeeper Jovilisi Borisi being off his line.
By half-time, Lautoka was leading 2-0. However, Navua made a determined effort in the second half, with Thomas Dunn creating several opportunities. As the game grew more intense, tensions flared and referee Neeshil Varman issued multiple cards, including a red card to Lautoka’s left-back Sakaraia Naisua for a second booking.
A well-placed free-kick by Jared Rongosulia from the Solomon Islands put pressure on Lautoka’s veteran goalkeeper Beniamino Mateinaqara, who mishandled the ball, allowing it to cross the line and bringing Navua back into contention with a goal.
Despite Navua’s efforts to find an equalizer, Lautoka sealed the win deep in injury time when Mateinaqara’s long clearance was expertly caught by Sairusi Nalaubu, who easily scored past Borisi.
Looking ahead, Stratum Construction/Zeg Investment Navua will play against their rivals Flick Hygiene Suva at 2pm tomorrow, while Flick Hygiene Lautoka will face Extra Supermarket Labasa in the highlight match of Day 2 at 8pm.