THE Dayals Sawmills Ba FC team got off to a fantastic start in the Rooster Chicken /Scoops Ice-Cream Battle of the Giants tournament, securing a 3-1 victory over Nadroga at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The men in black displayed their dominance right from the beginning, launching relentless attacks in the first half.
Although Ilaisa Nayasi initially found the back of the net in the 16th minute, the goal was disallowed as Nadroga’s goalkeeper was fouled before the shot was taken. However, a defensive mistake by Nadroga led to an own goal just three minutes later, giving Ba the lead. Captain Etonia Dogalau extended their lead with a goal in the 23rd minute.
Despite Rusiate Matarerega pulling one back for Nadroga just before half-time, the Ba side continued their strong performance in the second half, shutting down any chances for Nadroga to score. Fiji U19 player Penisoni Tirau sealed the victory for Ba with a clinical finish, making it 3-1.
Ba FC head coach, Daniel Krishneel says the players followed the game plan.
“Yes, it was a good start for the team. We were working so hard, and we are taking each game at a time. We have now passed the hurdle from Nadroga and now we have Suva tomorrow,” said Krishneel.
“The first match is always the important match of the tournament, so we came in strong, it’s not the end of the road, competition will get more tough, and we will take one game at a time.”
The fans were thrilled with the team’s performance as they cheered them off the field, celebrating a well-deserved win.
Ba is set to face Suva FC today at 7pm.
