Fiji Under-23 Striker Roy Krishna’s absence will leave a big gap in the Vodafone Labasa strike force when they take on Ba in the Champion versus Champion match at Subrial Park on Saturday.
Krishna – who had a relatively quiet Olympic play-off series last week – fly’s to New Zealand today to join up with Waitakere United in their bid to capture their first NZFC Championship.
Labasa will look to Krsihna’s fellow Olympian striker Maciu Dunadamu to bolster the strike force.
Labasa will be out to break the hold of Ba on CVC title. Ba has won 14 consecutive titles but the Northerners have drawn up a plot to counter the champions.
Labasa president Abhinesh Kumar said the side would be boosted by the inclusion of Dunadumu.
“While we have had a good start in the National League, this will be different,” Kumar said.
“This will be the best game so far this season as all know when Labasa and Ba meet, it is always exciting.
“While Labasa won the title when it first started, we will be trying to break the hold of Ba on the title.”
Dunadamu, Thomas Vulivuli, Pita Bolaitoga, Samuela Kautoga, Apisalome Turuva and Sandip Nair will be the key reps for the North side.
Ba is expected to be without star man Malakai Tiwa who picked up an injury during the OFC play-offs.
The Ba officials are keeping a low profile on the match with not much coming out of the Westerners camp.
Shamil Rao and Avinesh Swamy who were part of the U20 are expected to boost the midfield for the side.
Ba president Rishi Kumar said the record of the side spoke for itself.
“No where is it written that Ba will win every match it plays but the players give it their all every time,” Rishi said.
The match will kick off at 2pm.