FIJI Under-20 squad member Napolioni Qasevakatini stole the limelight during Nadi's 1-0 win over Lautoka in the Fiji Sun/GP Batteries National Football League at Prince Charles Park yesterday.
Qasevakatini, the younger brother of former Nadi and national rep Alipate Driu, was a thorn for the Lautoka defence displaying a lot of speed.
The former Central College student nailed the winner in the 62nd minute after missing a few opportunities in the first half.
The win maintained Nadi's top position on the NFL points table ahead of defending champions Ba in second spot.
Veterans Peni Finau and Alvin Avinesh made a comeback for the Blues. The Sugar City team's downfall was in attack.
Strikers Kenneth Onyema and Leisari Qalica failed to combine. Marksman Valerio Nawatu did not play for the Blues.
Nadi coach Kamal Swamy said Napolioni had an excellent game.
He said Lautoka proved to be tough opponents.
"It was a hard win for us as Lautoka was a very good side," Swamy said.
"They have many coaches who are former reps. But nothing to be taken away from my boys. They played well and stuck to the game plan."
"The boys knew when to attack and when to defend. They played good football. However at times they were rushing things."
"Napolioni is a Nadi boy and he played his heart out. The fans are backing the team. The former players are also coming in to lend their support."
"My assistant coach Timoci Raju has been encouraging the players. Credit must go to him as well."
Jeremaia Ladawa who is on the interim panel of coaches for Lautoka expressed disappointment with the control by referee Varun Lal.
He said it was a physical game.
"I'm not happy with the control by the referee," Ladawa said.
"I don't understand this kind of refereeing. They were playing on the table or what. The boys tried hard."
"We missed a few chances in the second half. If you get chances you have to use it so it was bad luck for us."
"It is good to see Peni and Alvin back in the frame. We have to sharpen our attack."
Qasevakatini had the best chance of scoring in the first half. The 19-year-old made a solo run from 35 metres in the 39th minute. He dribbled past Blues defender Isireli Jeke but drove the ball wide with only Lautoka goalkeeper Jone Sorolo to beat.
The youngster made up for the miss 17 minutes into the second spell with a powerful drive as the Lautoka defenders hesitated.
Ladawa and technical advisor Johnny Williams were warned by Lal during the match.
Lautoka: Jone Sorolo, Isireli Jeke, Peni Finau, Arvindra Naidu, Alvin Avinesh, Zibraz Sahib, Kenneth Onyema, Leisari Qalica, Dave Radrigai, Jone Nailogi, Jone Kaloutani,
Nadi: Benaminio Mateinaqara, Poasa Bainivalu, Viliame Toma, Lekima Gonerau, Ratu Veresa Toma, Napolioni Qasevakatini, Rusiate Matirerega, Amani Makoe, Ame Votonui, Uraia Loki, Ilimotama Jese.