The Vanuatu team are new to the competition but got off to the perfect start with a shock 1-0 away win against defending champions Hekari United in the opening round. They could not repeat that trick against Lautoka, who have opened their campaign with two wins on the trot, but Chapod felt his side had the better of the game, particularly in the first half.
Veteran Batram Suri and fellow attackers Jack Wetney and Fenedy Masauvakalo all had good opportunities to score but couldn’t convert their chances.
“We have quality players and I must admit that they played really well in the match,” Chapod says. “We know we can beat Lautoka but in football if you play well and don’t score then all that hard work comes to nothing.
“Fenedy played well but he couldn’t find the space anywhere to score a goal. It was the same with Batram and Jack, they hit the crossbar and the goal post each.”
Chapod believes the loss will not affect the players’ confidence and thinks they will bounce back well against Koloale.
“I have spoken with the players and told them we have to move on and stay focused. They will continue to stay that way until we meet Koloale.”