Tactical play and good finishing are crucial for the New Zealand Fan Club sponsored- Labasa football team when they face Digicel Premier League points’ ta­ble leaders Suva at the ANZ Stadium.

The Ravneel Pratap coached- side have reg­istered one point at the end of the second round and are gunning to record their first win in the competition.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Pratap said, they have to compete in the match.

“This Sunday we will have to compete in all areas of the game against Suva,” he said.

“From our set pieces, to possession and how we manage the game against a very well-drilled side like Suva.

“We’ll have to sharpen our defence and our finishing as well.

“We have to be tactical and play smart foot­ball this Sunday. Last year our defence was top class but this season we have conceded goals.

“The boys have been working hard at train­ing trying to perfect our defence and finish­ing.”

Call for support

Pratap said they have the experience of Christopher Wasasala but are still looking for the right player to be his striking partner.

The Lions have the likes of Ratu Anare, Pawan Singh, Rajiv Sharma and Siotame Kubu to consider.

“I want someone that will ignite that spark and combine with Chris, so they can score goals.

“This is Suva’s home game and they will come out firing. They are a very strong side with four of their players in the national team but they still have the depth in the team.”

Pratap has called the support of Labasa fans now living in Suva, Lami, Nasinu and Nausori to come out in numbers to cheer the team on.

“The fans presence will inspire the players to perform well every time we play,” he add­ed.

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