Problems within the Tailevu Naitasiri team were on full display during their 1-2 defeat to Navua in round 16 of the Digicel Fiji Premier League. The match took place at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on Sunday, further highlighting the team’s challenges as they currently sit in ninth place.
Head coach Priyant Manu expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, pointing to a lack of concentration and hope among the players. The last-minute withdrawal of three senior players exacerbated the situation, as Manu noted this made it difficult to field a solid lineup.
“It was a disappointing performance; we knew what we had to do, but I think the boys lost hope and concentration,” Manu stated. “We faced issues after three of our senior players decided to step down just 11 hours before the match, and we were left scrambling for replacements.”
Despite moments of dominance during the match, Tailevu Naitasiri struggled to find the net, succumbing to an early goal that dampened their morale. “The boys were demoralized after conceding a very easy goal in the first half, and that affected their spirits. They did put up a good fight in the second half, but we couldn’t equalize.”
Looking forward to their next match against Nadroga, Manu stressed the importance of refining their defensive strategies and improving ball movement to achieve better results. Although this loss was a setback, he remains hopeful about the team’s potential and is resolved to make a strong comeback.
Manu also encouraged fans to continue supporting the team and to trust in their abilities, especially with the recent addition of new players. The upcoming match against Nadroga is scheduled for 1 pm this Sunday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
In other fixtures this Sunday, all kicking off at 3 pm, Ba will host Labasa at the Fiji FA Academy Ground in Ba, Nadi will face Rewa at Prince Charles Park, Lautoka will take on Suva at Churchill Park, and Navua will compete against Nasinu at Uprising Sports Complex in Pacific Harbour.