Coach Wary Of Underdogs
The Labasa women’s football side are anticipating a tough battle against underdogs Tailevu/Naitasiri in today’s Vodafone Women Inter-district Championship semi-final at Fiji FA Academy ground in Suva.
Labasa head coach Arthur Simmons said after an impressive performance during the pool games he’s confident they would qualify for tomorrow’s final.
“Everything is on the hard work put in by the girls during training and the new players have gelled in well,” he said.
“Our preparation has been only for one and a half week because of adverse weather conditions.
“I’m thankful to the girls that they have been putting up a good performance until now and getting all three wins which is something we really didn’t expect.”
Simmons said he already has a game plan on how to handle Tailevu/Naitasiri.
Looking at the other semi-final, Simmons said Suva can cause an upset against defending champions Ba.
MATAELE WORKS ON DEFENCE
The Tailevu/Naitasiri women’s football side have strengthened their defence for today’s Vodafone Women’s IDC semi-final clash against Labasa.
Coach/player Laisani Mataele told SUNsports yesterday that they have survived their pool games and are taking on the next challenge.
“It has been tough and very challenging as well,” she said.
“The girls were a nervous but when they played their first game against Nadi, they felt confident and started scoring goals.
“This is despite the fact that we missed many attempts.
“The players played according to the game plan that was set out for them.”
Mataele said she has reminded the players the need to work on their mistakes and be aware of what is expected of them.
“My advice to the players in order to achieve success they need to maintain team-work, communication, discipline and to play their own game.”
WHAT’S ON TODAY
The first semi-final is a cracker between favourites Ba taking on hosts Suva at 11am while the Labasa versus Tailevu/Naitasiri clash is at 1.30pm.
– Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
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