Babasiga Lions Hold Luckless Nadi

Advanced Parts sponsored Labasa football side were held to a 2-2 draw by Jack’s Nadi in the Vodafone Premier League clash at Subrail Park, Labasa yesterday.
What happened: Nadi got to a good start as they took a 1-0 lead in the 39th minute through a Napolioni Qasevakatini goal after he was set-up by Rusiate Matarerega. The hosts missed many scoring opportunities as they fought back in trying to find the equaliser.
Halftime: Nadi 1-0 Labasa
The Babasiga Lions returned with a new strategy and in the 46th minute midfielder Nikhil Chand scored the equaliser.
The visitors immediately hit back in the 51st minute when Ame Votoniu scored their second goal to take a 2-1 lead.
As the match progressed the Labasa side brought in their reserves and the move p[aid dividend in the 77th minute when striker Ratu Anare drove in their second goal to leave the final scores at 2-2.
Comments: Labasa football coach, Ronil Lal said a draw was better than losing.
“The players did not perform according to my expectations. In the first half players were playing individually and not following the combination we had set.
“I understand that we have three new players and there is still room for improvement before we meet Rakiraki tomorrow.
Nadi manager Kamlesh Sami said this was their second match in the competition and they have scored one point.
“The boys played a good game compared to our first game against Suva. We were in fact looking for a win but nevertheless we are happy with what we got. We hope to beat Dreketi tomorrow and grab four points and we are confident that we can achieve this.”
TODAY’S MATCHES
Subrail Park in Labasa
1.30pm: Dreketi v Nadi
3.30pm: Labasa v Rakiraki
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
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