Labasa missed a golden opportunity to strengthen its hold at the top of the Extra Premier League standings after being held to a 2-all draw by Nasinu in round 11 yesterday.
The Babasiga Lions entered the weekend one point ahead of second-placed Ba, knowing a victory would guarantee them another week at the summit regardless of other results.
However, the draw has now opened the door for Ba to move ahead on the table. Labasa currently sits on 22 points while Ba trails closely on 20 points with a game in hand against Nadroga today at Lawaqa Park.
Defending champions Rewa also boosted their title hopes after grinding out a hard-fought 1-0 victory over struggling Tailevu Naitasiri.
The match proved evenly contested, with Tailevu Naitasiri coming close to scoring after striking the uprights during the opening spell. However, a costly defensive lapse late in the match allowed Rewa striker Asivorosi Rabo to capitalise and score from an acute angle to hand the Delta Tigers all three points. The victory lifts Rewa to 19 points and firmly back into the title race.
In another exciting encounter yesterday, Suva and Lautoka settled for a 1-all draw in the “Battle of the Cities” clash at HFC Bank Stadium.
Dave Radrigai gave Suva the lead from the penalty spot as the hosts carried a 1-0 advantage into halftime.
Lautoka responded strongly in the second half and found the equaliser in the 63rd minute through defender Felix Joseph, who unleashed a stunning 40-yard free-kick.
Meanwhile, in the lone match tomorrow, Nadi hosts Navua at King Charles Park.
