Etonia Dogalau’s exceptional performance, scoring two goals, propelled Ba into the final four of the Extra Supermarket Futsal Inter-District Championship after a thrilling 2-1 victory against defending champions Suva at the Vodafone Arena.
Suva came into the match with two wins under their belt against Nasinu and Savusavu, making them the favorites for a third consecutive win. However, Ba proved their resilience and determination on the court.
Dogalau made his mark just two minutes into the match, capitalizing on a lapse in the Suva defense. His second goal was a stunning highlight, occurring near the halftime mark, when he executed a precise header following a long clearance from Ba’s goalkeeper and captain, Ravinesh Anand Singh. This remarkable play set the pace for Ba, who led 2-0 at halftime.
In the second half, Suva mounted a vigorous response, with Nikil Chand driving their offensive efforts. Their perseverance paid off when Justin Kumar netted a goal, narrowing the gap to 2-1 with under ten minutes remaining. Despite a flurry of attacks from Suva in the closing moments, Ba’s robust defense, particularly the efforts of Manasa Nawakula and Penisoni Tirau, held firm. Even with all five Suva players pushing forward, they could not breach Ba’s defense or find a way past Singh, who stood resolute in goal.
This victory sees Ba finishing as the runners-up in Group B, while Suva leads the group. Ba’s performance showcases their spirit and resilience, proving that they are a formidable force in the tournament.
In the broader scope of the championship, this match not only highlights Ba’s potential for future success but also sets the stage for an exciting final four. Fans can look forward to thrills as the competition heats up, with teams demonstrating intense passion and skill on the futsal court.
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