15 Apr 2016

Sport: Kiwi FC warned about discipline after card-fest

7:53 am on 15 April 2016

Kiwi FC football coach Martin Tamasese has warned his players to stay disciplined after receiving three red cards in their previous Oceania Champions League match.

Monday's clash against Nadi FA is being investigated after both teams were reduced to eight players by the full-time whistle.

Kiwi were 3-1 up inside 21 minutes but a four-goal haul from Nadi's Anish Khem gave the Fijians a stunning comeback win.

Kiwi trio Desmond Fa'aiuaso, Lionel Taylor and Lawrie Letutusa were sent off by the referee and given automatic suspensions.

Lionel Taylor (R) was one of three Kiwi FC players to be sent off against Nadi FA.

Lionel Taylor (13) was one of three Kiwi FC players to be sent off against Nadi FA. Referee George Time gives out another red card. OFC Champions League 2016 Group Stage, Kiwi FC v Nadi FA, QBE Stadium, Auckland, Monday 11th April 2016. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Photo: OFC via Phototek

Martin Tamasese says the Samoan club champions will also be missing two other players, including captain Barry Lewis, for today's final group match against Tahitian club AS Tefana, after they received their second yellow cards in as many matches.

"We have talked with out team and the players were frustrated about the decisions the ref had made. There were some issues we need to settle for our last game...we have missed out five of our players with the red cards and the yellows so we will still manage to go for it with the numbers that we got."

Kiwi FC captain Barry Lewis (9) and teammates scuffle with players from Nadi FA.

Kiwi FC captain Barry Lewis (9) and teammates scuffle with players from Nadi FA. Photo: OFC via Phototek

AS Magenta from New Caledonia lead Group C with a maximum six points from two matches and can secure top spot and a guaranteed semi final berth as the group winner if they draw or better against Nadi today.

Tefana need to beat Kiwi FC and hope Magenta lose to claim top spot, but could also qualify as the best second placed team across the three groups.

Kiwi FC have yet to register a point in the competition.