The Tomasi Uculoa captained- Suva side scored an upset 2-1 win over Nadi in the Vodafone Premier League clash at Prince Charles Park, Nadi yesterday. Getting three points gave the capital city side a chance to chase one of the top two spots and secure a berth in the OFC Champions League.

What happened: Hosts Nadi made a nervous start not utilising their passes as they struggled to get into the Suva half. Nadi veteran defenders Ame Votonui and Eliki Ravosai were moved to play upfront in a new strategy but failed to perform.

The bigger and more mobile Suva forwards punched holes in the Nadi defence but found it hard to beat goalkeeper Vereti Dickson.

The visitors lifted their tempo and drew first blood in the 33rd minute through a volley from striker Sairusi Nalaubu.

Nadi did not lose hope and kept Suva defending at most times and it paid dividend in the 43rd minute when Waisake Tabucava nailed the equaliser

Halftime: Suva 1-1 Nadi

Nadi came back strongly and Anish Khem was introduced with the hope of lifting their game upfront. In the 78th minute stylish Suva striker Setareki Hughes managed to beat the Nadi defenders and goalie Dickson to slip in the winning goal.

Big play: Suva’s Nalaubu played well and scored their first goal.

Star turn: Hughes was marvellous in the midfield.

Comments: Suva coach/player Pita Rabo said: “The boys deserved the win after three tough matches in one week. This is in our favour and we are still in contention for the O-League spot. Our coach left us during the campaign but we have a good team and we look forward to the rest of the season.”

Nadi coach Joseph Nand said: “We lost to a better side. Many of seniors players were not playing today due to commitments but we are not done yet as we are looking forward to the next match.

Edited by Osea Bola

Feedback:  waisean@fijisun.com.fj