Labasa triumphed over Navua in a penalty shootout, winning 5-3 to secure the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Star player Christopher Wasasala scored the crucial kick that clinched the title for the Babasiga Lions.
The match started with both teams displaying a high tempo, creating early scoring opportunities. For Labasa, Wasasala, Tigi Molea, and Fordney Junior were particularly active in attacking plays, while Navua’s Thomas Dunn, Simione Damuni, and quick Usaia Tilivarua posed threats to the Labasa defense. Both goalkeepers, Simione Tamanisau and Jovilisi Borisi, were required to make several key saves.
Despite a lively first half, no goals were scored, prompting adjustments from Labasa coach Ravneel Pratap and Navua coach Saiyad Ali during halftime. Labasa made a tactical change, substituting Molea for Ilisoni Loloivalu, and Navua brought in Sunny Deol to replace Solomon Islander Jackson Wale.
The second half became increasingly heated, with referee Torika Delai issuing red cards to Labasa’s Akeimi Ralulu and Navua’s Domoni, leaving both sides with ten players. In the 79th minute, Dunn nearly scored, but Sitiveni Rakai made a crucial block. A subsequent attempt by Wasasala, set up by Anish Khem, was weak and easily caught by Borisi.
As the match went into extra time following a scoreless regulation period, neither team was able to secure a breakthrough, leading to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. Labasa’s successful penalty takers included Anish Khem, Sekove Naivakananumi, Rusiate Doidoi, Lekima Gonerau, and Wasasala. Navua managed to score through Ali Mekawir, Filipe Baravilala, and Jared Rongosulia, but Vineet Chand, who was brought on before the shootout, missed his attempt.
Labasa emerged victorious and earned a prize of $25,000, medals, and the championship trophy, while Navua received $6,000 for their journey to the final. The starting line-ups featured key players from both teams, highlighting the competitive spirit of the championship match.