FOUR local derbies will be the highlight of the opening round of the 2016 Vodafone National Football League.
Fiji Football Association vice-president and national league board chairman Yogeshwar Singh said the derby matches were finalised after a board meeting.
“We had a board meeting and it was decided to have the fixtures this way,” he said.
“All games should be good. I think Nadi versus Nadroga will be a thriller since Nadi has just won the Champion versus Champion Series.”
The 2016 season kicks off on Saturday with Labasa hosting Dreketi in a Vanua Levu derby between the only northern division teams in the eight-team national league. Later in the afternoon, Ba will start as the favourite when it hosts Lautoka in a western derby. On Sunday, in another western derby, Jack’s Nadi will host Nadroga at 3pm.
At the same time in Nausori, arch-rivals Rewa and Suva will battle in a southern derby at Ratu Cakobau Park.
The national league offers a top prize of $18000. Defending champion Nadi is planning to win the title again.
Nadi Football Association president Navneeda Gounder is looking forward to a strong season. Against Nadroga, Gounder said he expected full turnout for training from tomorrow.
“We didn’t have any major injuries from the CVC so players are available,” he said.
Nadi will be banking on its top players like Munit Krishna, Samuela Drudru, Rahul Krishna, Napolioni Qasevakatini and Ilimotama Jesse.
Round one draws
Saturday, February 13
Subrail Park, Labasa
1.30pm: Labasa vs. Dreketi
Govind Park, Ba
3.00pm: Lautoka vs. Ba
Sunday, February 14
Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori
3.00pm: Rewa vs. Suva
Prince Charles Park, Nadi
3.00pm: Nadi vs. Nadroga
