Goalkeeper Joela Buivanua delivered an outstanding performance as Nadi managed to hold defending champions Ba to a scoreless draw in their opening Group B match of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The anticipated matchup between the two western powerhouses lived up to expectations, showcasing impressive efforts from both sides in the final fixture of Day 1. The Men in Black, featuring Nabil Begg and Ratu Kaliova Dau in attack, posed a significant threat and generated several scoring opportunities, but Buivanua was up to the task, making crucial saves.
Experienced midfielder William Valentine effectively orchestrated Nadi’s midfield, assisting young players Ratu Tulivou and Eneriko Matau on multiple occasions, while Siotame Kubu and Ame Votoniu also put in substantial efforts for the Jetsetters.
Ba’s coach Timoci Seru introduced young players Isimeli Gavidi, Semesa Gadele, and Penaia Nagatalevu in the final stages of the match to maintain pressure in the offensive third.
Following this result, Rewa, sponsored by Extra Supermarket, leads Group B with 3 points, while both RC Manubhai Ba and Mahijibhai Hardware/Calgary Nadi have 1 point each, leaving Sigatoka Electric/Nadroga Auto Marine Upholstery Nadroga without any points.
Tomorrow, Ba will face off against Nadroga at 4 p.m., while Rewa will take on Nadi at 6 p.m.