Lautoka Football Club secured its place in the highly anticipated Fiji FACT tournament after a strong performance, defeating Suva 4-2 in the Extra Premier League. This victory at the Uprising Center was pivotal for Lautoka, considering their shaky start to the season which sparked doubts about their eligibility for the competition.
Shazil Ali stood out as a key player for Lautoka, scoring twice, while Saula Waqa and Gulam Razool added to the tally with a goal each. For Suva, Joe Moses and Peniasi Rotidara managed to put points on the board, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win.
In other notable matches, Rewa showcased remarkable strength, defeating Nasinu 8-0. This heavy defeat eliminated Nasinu from contention, alongside Tavua, who also missed the chance to qualify. Rewa’s goals came from multiple players, including Ivan Kumar and John Orubulu, who scored twice in the match.
Ba FC also celebrated a significant victory, overpowering Tavua with a 5-0 scoreline, while Nadi secured its qualification with a convincing 5-2 win against Navua. These results highlight the competitive nature of the league, with Lautoka finishing the season with 9 points, placing them among the top teams, while Nasinu concluded with 8 points and was left out of the upcoming tournament opportunities.
Additionally, Labasa maintained its position as league leaders by defeating Nadroga 3-0, demonstrating a solid performance with Christopher Wasasala scoring twice. As the tournament approaches, fans are hopeful for an exciting showdown, celebrating the determination and skill of the teams involved.
This recent surge in Lautoka’s performance serves as a reminder of their resilience and capability as defending champions, and fans are eager to see how their journey continues in the Fiji FACT tournament later this month, scheduled from May 30 to June 1 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The elite competition promises to be an exhilarating showcase of Fijian football talent.
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