Tabia Sanatan College clinched the under-19 title at the Extra Fiji Secondary School Football Championship with a 1-0 victory over Vunimono High School after extra time. The final, staged yesterday, saw the score remain 0-0 at halftime as Vunimono controlled possession after the break but could not find a finishing touch against a stubborn Tabia defense.
In the first half of extra time, Apenisa Dulukobau produced a composed finish to break the deadlock and hand Tabia the decisive goal. The Northerners then tightened up at the back in the second period of extra time, sealing a memorable 1-0 win.
Tabia Sanatan College principal Jitendra Prasad praised the players for their effort and thanked the supporters who backed the team in numbers. “We came prepared to win and take the trophy back to Labasa, and we have done it,” Prasad said. “I must thank all our fans and supporters for coming out in numbers to cheer us on.”
Context and added value
– The victory comes as Fiji’s school football scene continues to showcase depth and talent, with teams across the U19 division competing fiercely for the title.
– The tournament has already featured strong performances from other northern and central teams, underscoring Labasa’s growing footprint in Fiji’s secondary schools football.
What this means
– The win reinforces Tabia Sanatan College’s status as a rising power in Fiji’s U19 scene and adds to Labasa’s proud sporting tradition.
– It highlights the effectiveness of Tabia’s defensive discipline and late-game resilience, key traits for success in knockout-style championships.
Summary
Tabia Sanatan College emerged as the new U19 champions of the Extra Fiji Secondary School Football Championship, edging Vunimono High School 1-0 after extra time, with Apenisa Dulukobau’s early extra-time strike proving decisive and Tabia’s defense sealing the win.
Positive note
This result signals promising development for youth football in Fiji, particularly for northern schools, and bodes well for the next generation of players emerging from Labasa and the wider region. The victory not only brings a trophy home but also strengthens the belief that Fiji’s secondary school football can continue to produce competitive, entertaining talent.
Logical take
A tightly contested final decided in extra time often reflects a well-prepared game plan meeting high-pressure execution. Tabia’s ability to convert in the extra period while maintaining solidity at the back demonstrates a balanced approach that could serve as a blueprint for future success at the youth level.
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