Two players received red cards in the first round of Vodafone Premier League over the weekend.

Vikrant Chandra of Dreketi was sent off for dangerous play in the 6-0 thumping by Labasa last Saturday at Subrail Park

The second red card was given to Suva’s Poasa Bainivalu for a dangerous tackle in Suva’s 2-1 defeat of Rewa at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori yesterday.

Fiji Football Association competitions manager Amitesh Pal said players need to avoid being carded.

“Cards are given for a reason,”Pal said.

“If the referee sees that a player committed a foul definitely a card will be given.

“Discipline and fitness plays a part in players getting red cards, if they are not fit they are likely to get more physical as they are frustrated and commit fouls.

“However, even though the players know the rules of the game, getting a card is part of any game.”

Meanwhile, Rewa coach Marika Rodu said players needed to remain calm and make the right decisions.

“We cannot stress enough the importance of discipline. The discipline needs to be maintained the whole 90 minutes,” Rodu said.

“It’s not only about playing good and fair football, it’s all about maintaining focus, following instructions, making the right decisions and executions.”

Suva coach Gurjit Singh said while the players needed to also maintain discipline, and referees need to be firm, “The yellow and red cards can be costly to a team,” Singh said.

“Of course discipline is important but referees needed to be alert.”

Round Two of the Vodafone Premier League  continues this weekend.

Edited by Osea Bola

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