The Babasiga Lions will fea­ture new faces when they take on Lautoka and Navua this weekend because the side is plagued with injuries.

This was confirmed by coach, Ravneel Pratap yesterday, who said seven of their key players are likely to be out due to injuries and commitments.

From the seven, Ilisoni Lolaivalu and Sitiveni Rakai have joined the Fiji Police Force football side in preparartion for the FMF Sukuna Bowl next month, while Ashnil Raju copped a red card I the last game.

The four who are injured are Melvin Mani, Edwin Sahayam, Akeimi Ralulu and Lekima Gon­erau.

Labasa host Lautoka on Saturday and face Navua the following day at Subrail Park, Labasa.

“We know it will be difficult but nevertheless we have to play catch up with our games,” Pratap said.

“We are looking at other possi­bilities, that is bringing in some new boys into these two games. We know that Lautoka is a champion side.

“It will be difficult without many experienced players but we will be playing at home, we have to give in 100 per cent.

“We can’t be making excuses on those regards.

“As a coach we have to design some strategies on to how we can counter Lautoka this week.”

Most of these new players have been part of the team for a long time and is yet to debut while a few are being promoted from their youth team.

Pratap hopes that their goalkeep­er, Akuila Matesuva will be grant­ed leave to travel to Labasa as he is their captain and one of the most experienced players on the side.

Matesuva is a policeman based in Suva.

Meanwhile Nemani Dolodai is ready for the goalie position if Mateisuva’s leave application is not approved by his work supervi­sor.