Babasiga Lions book semifinal spot with big win

The Babasiga Lions saved the best for the last.

Hosts Extra Supermarket Labasa was hungry for a win as they walloped Stratum/Fortech Rewa 4-2 in their final group match at Subrail Park yesterday.

This saw them top Group A as they face Roylux Realty Ba in the semifinal while Khelvin Civil Engineering Lautoka takes on IRA Group Navua in the other semifinal.

Dubbed the Babasiga Lions, they had a slow start after being held to a draw by Suva and Navua.

Labasa head coach Alvin Chand said they played for their fans who had packed the pavilions the last two days.

“It was for our fans, who went home sad from the past two games,” he told SUNsports.

“There has been a lot of calls, messages and fans telling us to qualify because they want to watch us at home, that was our motivation.

“I thank the boys for their hardwork; they showed a lot of resilience.”

Chand said while he is wary about injuries in his side, a week is a long time to recover.

He also applauded goalkeeper Jitoko Vulava for his outstanding performance, which included stopping a penalty.

“I’m always proud of Ji (Vulava), he has been rock solid in the team’s defensive structure.

“He is one who we can rely on. We know that if the back four is beaten, we have one more player at the back, who will put his body on the line.

“He deserves to get that Man of the Match award.”

Labasa got off to a strong start with two quick goals to Lekima Gonerau and Jovesa Uge. Rewa got to the score sheet through an own goal as they trailed 2-1. Ashneel Raju restored Labasa’s two-goal lead before Rewa’s Semi Nabenu reduced the deficit to 3-2 at halftime. Jone Lalagavesi sealed Rewa’s fate with a well-placed header in the second half.

Chand urged the Labasa football fans to remain patient with them.

“Some of our fans, they lose patience very easily and I always tell them to remain calm.

“Don’t start judging the performance of the boys in one match. Labasa team is built for these types of pressured situations.

“We have won numerous tournaments after losing the first game. We have also won numerous tournament after drawing the first two games.

“Just have patience with the boys, and please always encourage them. A time will come when they’ll put a smile to your face.”

Meanwhile, in Group B, Ba and Lautoka have booked their spots in the semifinals after their wins.