Eagles force Lautoka clubs to clash in semi November 29, 2008
Nadi’s Eagles sent shockwaves to Lautoka soccer fans as their 7-0 victory over Police in the final pool match forced the two Lautoka clubs, GM United and Blues to face off in the first semifinal of the 2008 National Club Championship tomorrow.
Eagles in desperation for a semifinal spot outclassed and humiliated the Suva lawmen who looked depleted after their 1-2 loss to Police earlier in the day.
The win pushed Eagles to the top of the table in Pool 2 and GM United to second place due to superior goal differential.
It was earlier predicted that the two Lautoka sides would clash in the final of the NCC as they were tipped to top their respective pools but Eagles changed things the other way round to make the tournament a much more exciting and interesting one.
Both semifinals are expected to be action packed with all the four teams boasting district reps in their lineups.
GM United which last won the NCC title in 2006 will be marshaled by inspirational Lautoka skipper Jone Vono Junior and brothers Osea Vakatalesau and Peni Finau while Blues hunting for their first title glory will have the experience of Laisenia Tuba, Leone Vurukania, Niumaia Tagi and rugged Ilaitia Tuilau.
Eagles with old war horses Marika Namaqa, Maika Kasami and Fiji goalie Benaminio Mateinaqara will bank on western support against lone southern semifinalist and star studded Southern Forest Combine.
Both clubs also boast expertise on their bench as their respective district coaches, Ravuama Madigi and Gurjeet Singh will call the shots from the sideline which will also make their structure and style of play more cohesive.
The semifinals kick off at 8am tomorrow with the final of the 2008 Modern Glass and Mirror National Club Championship scheduled for 3pm.
The winning club walks away with $3000 while the runner up gets $1000.
Today’s results: Blues 7-1 Siberia, GM United 1-1 Eagles, Blues 0-0 Combine, GM United 2-1 Police, Combine 4-0 Siberia, Police 0-7 Eagles.