Navua kept their composure and a well-placed pass from Vinal Prasad saw Dunn sped past defender Lino Iliesa to tap the ball past Jitoko Vulava to narrow the deficit 2-1.
Ba’s Etonia Dogalau (16) and Ilaisa Vulimainavuso (7) defend against Nadroga’s striker Steward Toata in their Group A clash at the Battle of the Giants tournament at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva, on July 26, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar.
Back from attending a trial with A-League club, Sydney FC, has boosted the performance of Navua striker Thomas Dunn at the opening day of the Battle of the Giants tournament.
Dunn led Navua’s fightback by scoring twice as they held Labasa 2-2 in the feature match of Friday night at the HFC Bank Stadium. With their rowdy fans behind them Labasa took a 2-0 lead from goals scored by veteran striker Christopher Wasasala.
Navua kept their composure and a well-placed pass from Vinal Prasad saw Dunn sped past defender Lino Iliesa to tap the ball past Jitoko Vulava to narrow the deficit 2-1. He again showed his class with another classic goal.
Other matches
Hosts Suva proved critics wrong with a 1-0 win over neighbours Rewa. Both teams held their own as the match was heading towards a goalless draw. It was not to be when Suva was awarded a penalty in the 87th minute and midfielder Dave Radrigrai made no mistake with his attempt as they took the three points.
Meanwhile, it was a polished performance from Nadi as they upset favourites Lautoka 2-1 while Ba started well with a 3-1 win over Nadroga.
Results
Day 1: Ba 3-1 Nadroga; Nadi 2-1 Lautoka; Suva 1-0 Rewa; Labasa 2-2 Navua.
Group A
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
PD |
PTS |
|
|
Ba |
1 |
1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 |
|
Suva |
1 |
1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
3 |
|
Rewa |
1 |
0 | 0 | 1 | -1 |
0 |
| Nadroga | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -2 |
0 |
Group B
|
P |
W | D | L | PD |
PTS |
|
|
Nadi |
1 |
1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
|
Labasa |
1 |
0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
1 |
|
Navua |
1 |
0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Lautoka | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -1 |
0 |
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