Host team Labasa thrilled their home fans with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over traditional giants Ba in their opening match of the Extra Battle of the Giants at Subrail Park.
Ilisoni Lolaivalu delivered the decisive blow in the first half, capitalising on Labasa’s strong start and sealing three crucial points for the Babasiga Lions.
Coach Alvin Chand says Ba was a tough opponent, but he is proud of how his players stuck to the plan.
Chand adds that after just five days of training together, he is pleased with the team’s performance and focus now shifts to their next battle.
In earlier matches today, Nadi and Suva played out a goalless draw, defending champions Lautoka edged Nadroga 2-1, and Rewa beat Navua 2-0.
The tournament action continues tomorrow with Suva facing Navua at 11am, Rewa taking on Nadi at 1pm, Ba going up against Lautoka at 3pm, and Labasa returning to face Nadroga at 5pm.
