GROUND conditions will be a challenge for Nadi in the final of the 2016 Vodafone Fiji FACT this afternoon.
The Jack’s of Fiji and Professional Valuation-sponsored side had to work hard to score a come from behind win against Labasa in the first semifinal after trailing 2-0 in the second half.
The spell of bad weather has turned Ratu Cakobau Park turf into a wet and slippery surface making it hard for players to play well.
There were also a number of freekicks given by referee Rakesh Chandra because of dangerous play in the soggy conditions.
Nadi president Navneeda Goundar said they were not used to such conditions.
“The team was not effective in the first-half, but they came out strongly in the match. I am happy they came back and scored two goals.
“Playing in such weather will be a different story for us. It is Rewa and Suva’s conditions.”
Goundar guided Nadi to their Fiji FACT wins in 2013 and 2014.
His captain Napolioni Qasevakatini was instrumental in ousting northeners Labaasa.
“Coach Joseph will be talking to the boys on the game plan we need to use in the final,” Goundar added.
“The ground in Labasa was different and here it is different. We used short passes in Labasa and here we have to play long passes.”
The final kicks off at 3pm at the same venue.
