TWENTY players from Paradise Sea Food Supplies Lautoka FC have received major cash rewards from their sponsors, co-sponsors, and executives after their thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Ba FC in the Extra Super Premier League at Churchill Park on Friday night.
Association president Shalend Prasad confirmed the gesture, saying it was a way of acknowledging the players’ commitment.
“Players played up to our expectations despite some senior players being out due to injury and suspension. The young players rose to the occasion and played a great game.
“As a way of looking after our players, we rewarded each of these 20 players with a huge sum of money. We want to keep the figure confidential. This initiative was led by our major sponsors Paradise Sea Food Supplies, with the support of other co-sponsors and team executives,” Prasad said.
Prasad said Ba came in with experience and started strongly but Lautoka capitalised when it mattered most.
“Ba FC came prepared and came firing in the first half, but they lost concentration in the second half. That was where we capitalised and scored two goals,” he added.
He added the result was a confidence booster following their Battle of the Giants loss as the side now focuses on the upcoming FMF IDC in Ba.
“This was a positive result for us as we prepare for IDC. All our Premier League matches will be part of our build-up, and in the coming weeks, more young players will join Lautoka FC.”
He also took time to acknowledge their supporters.
“Ba struck first in the 26th minute through Penisoni Tirau, sending the “Men in Black” to the break with a 1-0 lead.
However, Lautoka came back stronger in the second spell, keeping possession and shifting momentum. Ilaitia Ralaselevu netted the equaliser in the 81st minute before Simione Nabenu sealed the dramatic winner in stoppage time.
Two matches were played yesterday.
Nasinu thumped Nadroga 6-3 at the Uprising Sports Complex in Pacific Harbour. Nasinu led 3-nil at halftime.
Navua had a hard fought 2-1 win over Tavua at Garvey Park.
The win for Navua lifts them to fourth spot on the ladder pushing Ba to the fifth place.
Lautoka goalkeeper Senirusi Bokini stops the shot from Ba striker Etonia Dogalau during their match in the Extra Premier League at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Picture: REINAL CHAND
Lautoka’s Epeli Leiroti goes on attack against Ba during their match in the Extra Premier League at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Picture: REINAL CHAND