The Solomon Islands import scored a crucial goal in the 54th minute of play, taking Hekari to the top of Group B with ten points while Lautoka drop to second on nine points. Vanuatu's Tafea are still in contention on eight points after their 0-0 draw with Marist on Saturday.
Match Day 6 on Sunday 28 March will ultimately decide who advances to the home and away final to play the winner of Group A for a spot at the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2010.
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| Hekari United F.C. [photo courtesy Fiji FA Media] |
Fa'arodo wasn't the only import to shine on Sunday; Fijian duo Pita Bolatoga and Tuimasi Manuca also played a huge role in Hekari’s win.
Coach Jerry Allen says they had prepared well before for the crucial match.
“We came here in search of nothing less and nothing more than a win. I thought the side gave a 110% in the match. We knew Lautoka were dominating teams here in Fiji so we came prepared. I have coached in Fiji before and am familiar with the style of play here,” Allen said.
“We must now go for a win against Marist. I came here with a game plan and it worked. Hekari was at the bottom of the table at one stage and we slowly made our way back in the competition and now we are at the top,” he added.
Shop N Save Lautoka president Shalendra Prasad says ill-discipline cost his side. Lethal striker Osea Vakatalesau and Marika Robanakadavu were both given their marching orders in the second spell.
“Our players lost their temper and as a result we had two players red carded which made things difficult for us. I haven’t lost faith and I know we can comeback and qualify but we will need the results to go in our favour,” Prasad said.
“The side did not play to the standard that we have been playing but I must congratulate Hekari for the win.”
Hekari need to beat Marist FC at Lawson Tama Stadium on to March to top the Group B while Lautoka and Tafea will both need a win - and the Marist-Hekari match to go their way - to have any hope of advancing.
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