Lautoka, the reigning champions of the Battle of Giants, continued their impressive performance by defeating Labasa 4-2 in the Digicel Fiji Premier League Round 13 match held at Churchill Park.
Despite being without notable players such as Epeli Leiroti, Zibraaz Sahib, and Sakaraia Naisua, and having their BOG-winning captain Ilimotama Jese start on the bench, Lautoka displayed a strong game against the Babasiga Lions, who had brought in some reinforcements. Young talent Maciu Tuinuku played right back for Lautoka, while Saula Waqa and Sairusi Nalaubu moved to midfield, creating a fresh striking duo consisting of Nigerian Usman Omede and Shiva Pillay.
Labasa featured Netani Suluka, who had missed the BOG, in their starting lineup, and coach Ravneel Pratap made tactical changes, including starting Christopher Wasasala and Melvin Mani in attack while benching Solomon Islanders Tigi Molea and Junior Fordney.
The first half saw Lautoka take the lead in the 31st minute when an attempted clearance by Iliesa Lino found its way into his own net. Lautoka maintained a narrow 1-0 advantage at halftime.
In the second half, Labasa made two substitutions, bringing on Sekove Naivakananumi and Molea, which shifted the dynamics of their play. Lautoka responded by introducing Jese and moving Nalaubu forward, while Pillay increased Lautoka’s lead by converting a blocked attempt from Nalaubu.
As the match progressed, Labasa added veteran players Taniela Waqa and Fordney to their roster in an attempt to turn the tide. Lautoka also made a strategic change, giving a chance to young Sekove Luma, who earned a penalty when fouled inside the box. Waqa capitalized on this opportunity, extending Lautoka’s lead in the 76th minute.
Labasa finally found the net in the 85th minute through substitute Waqa. However, Lautoka’s Nalaubu secured victory with a goal in the 89th minute, showcasing impressive skill by outpacing two defenders and scoring.
In the closing moments, Lautoka’s goalkeeper Tabucala was substituted for Umesh Ram, who had a challenging debut, conceding a goal to Wasasala in added time and then giving away a penalty. Fortunately for Lautoka, Wasasala missed the penalty kick, hitting the post.
With this victory, Lautoka remains in third place on the league table with 22 points, while Labasa holds the second position with 27 points.
The teams were as follows:
Lautoka – Viliame Tabucala (Umesh Ram), Antonio Tuivuna, Maciu Tuinuku, Sterling Vasconcellos, Aporosa Yada, Muni Shivam Naidu, Ilisoni Logaivou, Saula Waqa, Sairusi Nalaubu, Shiva Pillay (Sekove Luma), Usman Omede (Ilimotama Jese).
Labasa – Jitoko Vulava, Iliesa Lino, Sitiveni Rakai, Lekima Gonerau, Ilisoni Loloivalu (Sekove Naivakananumi), Akeimi Ralulu (C) (Taniela Waqa), Netani Suluka (Junior Fordney), Ashnil Raju, Eparama Moraica (Tigi Molea), Christopher Wasasala, Melvin Mani.