TOUGH defender Kolinio Sivoki will lead the Lautoka Blues in their bid to end their Fiji FACT title drought.
The national rep took over the reigns from goalkeeper Beniamino Mateinaqara during the OFC final against Team Wellington last weekend.
His experience and leadership qualities would be vital for the Sugar City boys. Team president Abdul Kadar says Sivoki is one of the experienced and instrumental member of the team and deserved to lead the side.
“He has played at top level games and is a perfect choice to lead the side,” said Kadar. “He is a solid player and always led by example.”
Kadar said Sivoki’s new job description would not affect his game. He said the presence of other senior players such as Mateinaqara, Jone Vesikula, Praneel Naidu, Zibraz Sahib, Osea Vakatalesau, Dave Radregai and Kavaia Rawaqa would make the job easy for Sivoki.
Kadar said the first game against Suva would be a huge test for the players.
“These boys are still recovering from the OFC competition but they are expected to be at their best against Suva. The first game is always tough and we need to play well to set our platform in the competition.”
Lautoka will miss the services of overseas-based players Brian Kaltack and Cory Chettleburgh. The duo have returned to their respective clubs having helped the Blues to reach the OFC final.
Striker Benjamin Totori, who also played for the Blues during the OFC will feature for the side in the Fiji FACT.
The competition kicks off this afternoon.
