They had to come from behind for the victory as Suva had taken an early lead through Vanuatu based striker Joseph Nimariau just five minutes in the first spell.
Son of former National rep Simon Peters, Misaele Draunibaka was at his best scoring a brace of goals for the U-20 side. He got his first in the on the stroke of half time and later on the 76th minute of play.
Both sides were reduced to 10 men. Suva striker Emori Ragata was sent off for his second caution in the 43rd minute while U-20 replacement goalie Akuila Mateisuva was sent off in the 78th minute for handling the ball outside his box which denied Suva a goal scoring opportunity.
Ba lad and former National Futsal rep Christopher Kumar made his debut for the Skippy U-20 side while the win was first for coach Yogen Dutt in charge.
U-20 manager Iosefo Vosaboto says the win was a major moral booster for the young side that has been in camp since January preparing for the 2011 OFC U-20 World Cup playoffs.
“Beating a very experienced Suva side was a huge moral booster for the players. The side has been training hard and it was a well deserved victory,” Vosaboto said.
Suva
18. Mesake Navitikula (GK), 3. Nitan Kumar, 11. Eric Nigel Chand, 9. Malakai Tavuoga (-26), 4. Samuela Vula (C), 16. Waisake Navunigasau, 7. Joshua Tuasolia (-52), 13. Joseph Nimariau (-70), 5. Inosi Cava, 14. Mira Sahib, 10. Emori Ragata
Reserves: 1. Filimoni Boletawa (GK), 12. Rajesh Roshan, 8. Esava Naqeleca (26’), 2. Tomasi Tuqalo (70’), 17. Kameli Tacikalou, 6. Asish Prasad (52’), 15. Jone Lati
Goal: 13. Joseph Nimariau 5”
Caution: 10. Emori Ragata 22’
Sent Off: 10. Emori Ragata 43’
U-20
1. Epeli Loaniceva (GK) (-48), 11. Ravinesh Karan Singh, 14. Poasa Senibuli, 8. Malakai Levatia, 12. Akei Uluibau, 16. Joshua Inoke Tawake (-58), 6. Vilitati Ratu, 17. Taione Kerenavanua (C), 2. Christopher Kumar, 10. Abbu Zahid, 9. Misaele Draunibaka
Reserves: 18. Akuila Mateisuva (GK) (-48), 4. Micheal Pickering, 5. Malakai Rakula (-79), 7. Jone Salauneune, 15. Jonas Naceva (58’) (-79)
Goals: 9, Misaele Draunibaka 44”, 76”
Caution: 10. Abbu Zahid 56’
U-20 upsets Suva
