Labasa triumphed over Navua in a thrilling penalty shootout, winning 5-3 to secure the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship at Churchill Park in Lautoka. The pivotal moment came when star striker Christopher Wasasala netted the decisive penalty kick for the Babasiga Lions.
The match began energetically, with both teams launching early attacks. Labasa’s Christopher Wasasala, Tigi Molea, and Fordney Junior posed significant threats, while Navua’s Thomas Dunn, Simione Damuni, and the speedy Usaia Tilivarua also looked dangerous. Goalkeepers Simione Tamanisau and Jovilisi Borisi were kept busy throughout the match, making several crucial saves.
Neither team found the net in the first half, prompting coaches Ravneel Pratap and Saiyad Ali to adjust their strategies for the second half. Labasa substituted Molea for Ilisoni Loloivalu, while Navua brought in Sunny Deol to replace Solomon Islander Jackson Wale.
As tensions increased, the referee sent off Labasa’s Akeimi Ralulu and Navua’s Domoni, resulting in both teams playing with ten players. In the 79th minute, Dunn came close to scoring but was thwarted by Labasa’s defense. Two minutes later, Wasasala had a chance, but his shot lacked the power needed to challenge Borisi.
With the score deadlocked after 90 minutes, the game went into extra time, but still no goals were scored, leading to a penalty shootout. Labasa’s Anish Khem, Sekove Naivakananumi, Rusiate Doidoi, Lekima Gonerau, and Wasasala converted their penalties successfully. Navua’s Vineet Chand missed his penalty, while Ali Mekawir, Filipe Baravilala, and Jared Rongosulia scored for Navua.
As champions, Labasa earned $25,000, medals, and the winner’s trophy, while Navua received $6,000 for reaching the final.