Lautoka Football coach Kamal Swamy hailed his team’s patience as the Blues’ started the Vodafone Premier League season with a crushing 6-0 win over Tavua at Churchill Park, Lautoka.

A hat-trick of goals for Samulea Drudru, while one goal each to midfielder Dave Radrigai, Kolinio Sivoki and Sairusi Naulubu capped a dominant victory for the reigning champions.

A notable absentee from the Lautoka squad was Solomon Islander Benjamin Totori, who is expected to return from holiday today.

Lautoka’s Samuela Drudru ina ction against Tavua in the Vodafone Premier League on January 20, 2019. Photo: Waisea Nasokia

What happened: An entertaining first half somehow ended scoreless, with the hosts missing several scoring opportunities.

Tavua also missed two easy chances in front of goal but looked a shadow of the side that toppled some big team last season.

The victory also marked the notable return of lanky striker Osea Vakatalesau, who has recently struggled to find form and even get selected in Lautoka’s squad.

The flood-gates opened in the 54th minute of the second half with Drudru expertly finishing to make it 1-0. Lautoka never looked back from there.

It was a rare good day in front of goal for Drudru, who has recently been guilty of not finishing easy chances.

He missed a number of easy chances against Tavua too but saved-face with three goals to his name.

Sairusi Nalaubu made it 2-0 in the 57th minute before Kolinio Sivoki made it 3-0 from the penalty spot three minutes later after substitute Dave Radrigai was fouled in the box.

In the 67th minute, Drudru made it 4-0 with a powerful striker from outside the box.

Radrigai added another to make it 5-0 with a side-foot shot after being set up by Drudru.

Drudru put the final nail in the coffin with well-taken goal in the 91st minute to complete his hattrick.

Goalkeeper Ben Mateinaqara recorded a clean sheet but his blunder could have led Tavua to score twice in the match.

Comments: Lautoka coach Swamy said: “We made a slow start the young Tavua team kept on coming but in the second half once we started to maintain possession and be patient managed to score the goals.”

Tavua football coach Nazeel Ali said: “Congratulation to Lautoka for the big win as we are in rebuilding phase after we lost six key players in the transfer window.

“I salute these young boys to hold nil-all at half-time but the superior fitness and experience won the game.”

Meanwhile, Lautoka host Suva this weekend, as their final league match before they concentrate on the OFC Champions League preparations.

Tavua will host Jack’s Nadi at home.

-Edited by Sheldon Chanel

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