Team difficulties were apparent in the disappointing performance of the Tailevu Naitasiri squad, who faced a 1-2 defeat against Navua during round 16 of the Digicel Fiji Premier League. The match took place at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on Sunday, revealing the challenges the team is currently experiencing, as they sit in ninth place on the league table.
Head coach Priyant Manu expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting issues with concentration and a lack of morale among the players. The late withdrawal of three senior players compounded the team’s struggles.
“It was a disappointing performance; we knew what we needed to do, but I believe the boys lost hope and focus,” Manu commented. “We faced challenges as three of our senior players opted out just 11 hours before the match, which forced us to find replacements at the last minute.”
Despite having periods of dominance in the match, the team found it difficult to capitalize on their chances, and their morale dipped after conceding an early goal.
“I think the boys were demoralized after conceding a very easy goal in the first half, which affected their spirit,” Manu noted. “There was a good effort in the second half, but we couldn’t manage to equalize.”
As they prepare for their next match against Nadroga, Manu stressed the importance of enhancing their defensive strategies and improving ball movement to achieve a better result.
While Sunday’s loss represented a setback, Manu remains hopeful about the team’s potential and is determined to recover in the upcoming game. He encouraged fans to continue supporting the team and to trust in their capabilities, especially with new players being incorporated at short notice.
Nadroga will face Tailevu Naitasiri in their next match at 1pm this Sunday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
In other fixtures scheduled for Sunday starting at 3pm, Ba will host Labasa at the Fiji FA Academy Ground, Nadi will take on Rewa at Prince Charles Park, Lautoka will compete against Suva at Churchill Park, and Navua will battle Nasinu at the Uprising Sports Complex in Pacific Harbour.