THE McDonald’s Nadi Women were forced to settle for a 24-all draw against a determined Fresh Choice Tailevu side in a thrilling Round 4 clash of the Subrails Marama Cup Championship at Churchill Park in Lautoka yesterday.
Nadi captain Laisa Seru said her side knew they were in for a tough battle after an impressive victory over Suva Women’s last weekend at HFC Bank Stadium.
“We knew this game was going to be a hard game for us, considering a win against Suva last week. We knew the target was going to be on our back, and they really gave us a good game,” Seru said.
Seru admitted her team struggled at times to maintain their defensive discipline and became too casual during crucial periods of the match.
“We were a bit too casual out there. It cost us a few defensive weaknesses and allowed the Tailevu side some choices,” she said.
Seru said the team was reminded at halftime of the importance of protecting their home ground and finishing the match strongly.
“When we went into the changing room at half-time, we were told to protect our ground, considering it’s our home game. We wanted to come out here and hold our fort.”
Although Nadi managed to avoid defeat, Seru acknowledged that the performance was not quite at the level the team expected.
“I guess we did that, but it wasn’t good enough. We came away with a tie, but we’re grateful,” she said.
Seru was pleased with the contribution of Nadi’s impact players, who made an impact after coming onto the field in the second half.
“The impact players did very well. Good carries, good support players. We got some choice in the second half and allowed them to play the game,” she said.
Fresh Choice Tailevu team captain Makereta Tunidau acknowledged her girls for giving out their best and showing their talent in the full 80 minutes.
“Though we could not get a win today, but I am so thankful of the girls for holding the fort till the last whistle and showed out well on the field,” Tunidau said.
Tunidau added the team will return on their drawing board, review their game and prepare stronger for their next match.
With the competition intensifying, both the captains said they would use the result as a learning experience, particularly focusing on tightening their defence before their next match.
