Lautoka’s Under-16 team demonstrated remarkable tenacity in the Extra National play-offs at the Fiji Football Academy, clinching a narrow 3-2 victory over Navua. The match featured a thrilling second-half comeback led by standout player Veleni Rasorewa, who not only scored the opening goal but also netted the decisive goal to ensure Lautoka’s triumph.
Navua started strong, taking a 2-1 lead by halftime with two goals from Arav Kumar. However, Rasorewa’s goal just before the break reignited Lautoka’s hopes. Motivated by their manager, Shekar Sharan, who instilled confidence in the team with the belief that they could equal and surpass Navua’s score, Lautoka returned from halftime rejuvenated and ready to fight for victory.
The second half saw John Kamikamica equalize for Lautoka, providing a surge of energy that shifted the match in their favor, especially after Navua’s player received a red card for misconduct, leaving them down to ten men. Capitalizing on this advantage, Rasorewa scored the winning goal. Unfortunately, he injured his calf shortly after and had to be substituted, leaving Lautoka with just ten players on the pitch, but they managed to hold onto their lead until the final whistle.
Looking forward, Lautoka is scheduled to face Labasa tomorrow at 1 PM, while Navua will take on the same team on Sunday at 11 AM. This victory not only showcases Lautoka’s resilience but also their promising potential for future matches. The determination and spirit displayed by the young players serve as an encouraging indicator of their capabilities in this tournament, creating a hopeful outlook for their upcoming games.
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