Lautoka triumphed in the 2024 Rooster Chicken/Scoops Ice-Cream Battle of the Giants by defeating Nadi 2-0 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Strikers Saula Waqa and Sairusi Nalaubu each scored to secure the Blues’ second consecutive title of the season.
The match started with both teams aggressively seeking an early advantage. Lautoka’s offensive threats came from Waqa, Aporosa Yada, and Nalaubu, while Nadi relied on Ali Naseri, Siotame Kubu, and Eneriko Matau. Despite several solid saves by Nadi’s goalkeeper Joela Biuvanua, the game remained goalless at halftime.
Although a slight drizzle complicated play in the second half, Lautoka’s experience shone through with Antonio Tuivuna and Ilimotama Jese effectively leading the defense. In the 64th minute, Waqa won a penalty after being fouled in an aerial duel, successfully converting it to put Lautoka ahead.
As the rain intensified, both teams adapted their strategies, focusing on long through balls. One such maneuver allowed Epeli Leiroti to set up Nalaubu, who scored Lautoka’s second goal. Despite a persistent effort, Nadi failed to score before the final whistle.
Lautoka earned $17,000 for their victory, while Nadi took home $5,000 as the runner-up.
Starting line-ups:
Flick Hygiene Lautoka: Viliame Tabucala, Epeli Leiroti, Aporosa Yada, Ilimotama Jese (C), Muni Shivam Naidu, Sairusi Nalaubu, Saula Waqa, Antonio Tuivuna, Sterling Vasconcellos, Sakaraia Naisua.
Smart and Efficient/Calgary Nadi: Joela Biuvanua, Shaheel Valentine, William Valentine, Ali Naseri, Tuiba Batiratu, Ame Votoniu (C), Eneriko Matau, Ratu Tulivou, Vuniuci Tikomaimereke, Mohammed Ayman, Siotame Kubu.