Discipline is key, says captain

Failing to cross the finishing line and win their first League title since 2007, continues to motivate the Labasa men’s football side to remain consistent and beat Rewa this weekend.

The Northerners travel to Nausori’s Ratu Cakabau Park to face Rewa in Sunday’s Extra Premier League clash. They are coming with the hope of returning home with maximum points. Labasa leads the Premier League points table with seven points after two wins and a draw and has a better goal difference than Ba who is in second spot.

Labasa captain, Akeimi Ralulu who is set to miss this crucial encounter believes the side has improved and are on a winning momentum.

Ralulu said they respect Rewa for being the defending champions but to become a champion, they have to overcome them.

A boost for Labasa is the return of midfielder, Ashnil Raju, who came in as a substitute against Nadi last weekend where he put on a sterling performance.

Being red-carded last Saturday, Ralulu urged his teammates to avoid cards and other disciplinary issues.

“We can’t afford to give away silly freekicks and fouls, Rewa thrives on the set-piece game and we have to limit this area,” he said.

Ralulu said they had developed their game with good midfield play where he thinks could be the difference against Rewa.

He emphasised they had a star-studded side that could win the league title, but the right attitude matters. The right approach matters in football”.

The tough defender called for patience from their fans to understand the process and motivate their growth and not criticise.

Ralulu said the young players in the side have stepped up and he acknowledged veteran defender, Taniela Waqa, for marshalling them.

Fixtures

Sunday: Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori, 12pm Tailevu/Naitasiri v Lautoka; 2pm Rewa v Labasa; Govind Park, Ba, 3pm Ba v Nasinu.