DEFENDING Premier division champions Lami thrashed an injury-hit Rakiraki team 5-1 to secure a spot in the semi-final of the Courts Inter District Championship this afternoon.
Malachi Houmaesiuhi turned on a magical performance netting four goals for the Sekove Tama Vosuga-coached Lami side.
Going into the match, Rakiraki only needed a draw to progress further in the tournament but failed to continue the momentum after blowing away Bua 4-0 earlier.
Rakiraki looked wounded in the second spell as the intense heat took its toll on the players.
Lami coach Vosuga said they played their cards right at the end.
He said Houmaesiuhi made a big difference in the encounter.
The former national rep said they were ready to defend the title.
"We knew that Raikraki were playing their second game and we pressured them in the second-half," Vusuga said.
Rakiraki coach Pragdesh Gounder said the team had succumbed to injuries. "It is unfortunate that my players were falling one after another in the second-half," Gounder said.
"The injuries cost us the match."
Meanwhile, Tailevu Naitasiri topped their pool after winning all four games.
In the final pool fixture, Tailevu Naitasiri defeated Nasinu 1-0.
In another match Taveuni overcame Vatukoula 2-0.
In the semi-finals this afternoon, Tailevu Naitasiri will face Lami while Dreketi will take on Taveuni.