NIPPY striker Shahil Dave struck in quick succession in the second spell to guide Suva to a 3-1 victory against Tavua and earn the Capital City boys a spot in the Courts Inter District Championship semi-final.
Dave scored in the 79th and 80th minute as the Tavua defence wilted in the heat. With the double Dave took his tally to four goals in the tournament.
Ravinesh Karan Singh opened Suva’s account in the first half when he lobbed the ball over Tavua goalkeeper Jovilisi Borisi.
Waisea Duwai equalised at the other end.
Despite the loss, the injury hit Tavua side bowed out of the tournament on a high note after recording draws against Nadi and Lautoka.
Tavua coach Anand Sami said it was the technical errors which cost them the game.
“When one defender misses then the other defender must cover for him,” Sami said.
“But I’m very happy with the performance of the young boys. We got a point each in the first two games.
“I just came to help the side for this IDC and it is up to the officials if they want my services for further tournaments.”
Suva assistant coach Aginesh Prasad said their morale did not go down after the opening round loss to Lautoka.
Prasad said they came out strong against Nadi and Tavua.
“We played smart against Tavua maintaining possession,” he said.
“We frustrated Tavua. Even when Tavua scored we kept our shape and continued attacking the goal mouth.
“Shahil is a class player but when you have equally good players around him and a quality ball is given, he will score.”
