Gabriel Matanisiga scored two goals for Labasa in the opening round of the Vodafone Premier League 2016  against Dreketi at Subrail Park yesterday.

The 19-year-old Nabalebale, Wailevu, Cakaudrove native drew first blood for the Babasiga Lions in the 3rd minute and sealed the win two minutes before fulltime.

What happened:

Matanisiga was in perfect position to draw the defence  and beat Dreketi goalkeeper Petero Namoce.

In the 19th minute national Under-20 rep Ashneel Raju extended the lead.

In the 29th minute Labasa striker Christopher Wasasala scored an easy goal to the delight of the Babasiga Lions fans.

Pita Bolaitoga contributed in scoring the fourth goal in the 32nd minute.

Halftime: Labasa 4-0 Dreketi

Vikrant Chandra of Dreketi became the first player to receive the red card.

Three Labasa players;  Bolaitoga, Paula Posiano and Manasa Levaci received yellow cards.

Ravinesh Singh scored in the 71st minute before

Matanisiga sealed the win.

Comments: Dreketi coach Arthur Simmons said;

“We need to work on our fitness before we face Suva and Rewa next weekend.

“I believe our players will perform better in the upcoming games.”

Labasa coach Johan Leewai;

“The senior players led the way and Under-20 players impressed me.

“We need to work on our fitness before we face Ba.”

Teams list:

Labasa: Akuila Mataisuva, Taniela Waqa, Manasa Levaci, Paula Posiano, Edwin Sahayam, Pita Bolaitoga, Gabriel Matanisiga, Ashnil Raju, Shoel Khan, Christopher Wasasala, Ravinesh Singh.

Reserves: Ratu Anare, Joel Prasad, Shamal Lal, Ravneet Krishna, Timoci Junior, Taione Kerevanua

Dreketi:

Petero Namoce, Shavneel Chand, Kushal Naicker, Sisa Valesua, Vikrant Chandra, Ilisoni Lolaivalu, Krishneel Krishna, Mohammed Zaid, Peni Sokia, Vilikesa Sowane, Sanaila Waqanicakau.

Reserves: Ronald Kumar, Abinesh Chand, Rohit Chand, Manjoor Khan, Mohammed Haroon, Rusiate Doidoi.

Edited by Osea Bola

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