Suva FC celebrated a remarkable victory, becoming the first team to qualify for the Fiji FACT semi-finals following a narrow 1-0 win against Nadroga at Prince Charles Park. The match, held on June 14, 2004, saw striker Pita Rabo score the decisive goal after receiving a well-placed cross from midfielder Laisiasa Vosailagi. With this victory, Suva solidified their position after a previous triumph over Nadi, where they won 3-1, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.
Suva’s president, Jahir Khan, expressed confidence in his team’s ability to face any rival in the semi-finals, praising the players’ performance, especially captain Inosi Cawa and goalkeeper Afroz Nabi. He emphasized the unpredictable nature of the tournament, noting that the weather could impact any team’s chance of success. Despite the challenging muddy conditions, Suva’s defense, spearheaded by Cawa and promising newcomer Apisalome Turuva, held firm against Nadroga’s attempts to score.
Nadroga, on the other hand, struggled without their injured Australian-based striker, Antonio Faria, and found it difficult to adapt to the field conditions. Although they made several attempts at goal, goalkeeper Nabi’s resilience ensured Suva maintained their clean sheet.
This victory not only reflects Suva’s strong form but also serves as a testament to their preparation and teamwork going into the semi-finals, instilling hope among fans for the subsequent matches in the tournament. As the Fiji FACT progresses, anticipation builds for how Suva will perform against the other semi-final contenders, aiming to convert their current momentum into championship success.
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