Extra Premier League: Ba extend lead at the top with thrilling 2-1 victory over Labasa
Ba have extended their lead at the top of the Extra Premier League table to four points and moved one step closer to winning the title after coming from behind to defeat Labasa 2-1 in an entertaining clash at Subrail Park.
Labasa made the brighter start and took an early lead through Rex Naime, giving the hosts a 1-0 advantage at half-time.
Ba returned with greater intensity in the second half and were rewarded with a penalty after a Labasa defender handled the ball inside the box.
Striker Nabeel Beg calmly converted from the spot to level the scores at 1-1.
With the match heading towards a draw, Ba struck the winner in the final minute where Etonio Dogalau capitalised after Labasa's defenders failed to clear the ball, sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for the Men in Black.
Ba coach Ravinesh Kumar described the match as a tough contest against a strong Labasa side, saying his team remained patient and stuck to its game plan.
Kumar says the match highlighted areas for improvement, but the team learned from its mistakes and will continue to improve.
He says his half-time message was to keep possession, use the flanks effectively and remain patient, and the players' response helped them score the winning goal in the final minute.
Meanwhile, before the men's clash, Labasa Women thrashed Ba Women 6-1 in a Digicel Women's Super League match.
Nadi claimed a vital 3-2 victory over Nasinu at Uprising Sports Ground.
In tomorrow's matches, Tailevu Naitasiri will host Navua at Uprising Sports Ground at 1pm.
Rewa will face Suva at 1pm at Churchill Park, before Lautoka take on Nadroga at 3pm.
