Labasa overcame an early deficit to secure a commanding 3-1 victory against Suva in an exciting Group A opener of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Both teams showcased a strong performance, but it was Suva that drew first blood in the 41st minute when defender Joeli Ranitu scored with a header from a Joe Moses corner, leaving Labasa goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau and his defense momentarily stunned.
However, Labasa equalized in stoppage time of the first half when Bruce Hughes fouled Lekima Gonerau inside the penalty area. Christopher Wasasala confidently converted the penalty to level the match before halftime.
In the second half, Labasa took the lead in the 51st minute with a powerful shot from veteran Taniela Waqa, following a well-coordinated play in midfield.
In an attempt to regain control of the game, Suva’s Coach Babs Khan introduced Solomon Islanders Gagame Feni and Jaygrey Sipikana to strengthen the attack. Nevertheless, Labasa remained resolute, and in the 87th minute, Fordney Junior clinched the win with an excellent finish after a swift counter-attack.
The starting lineups were as follows:
Extra Supermarket Labasa: Simione Tamanisau (C), Simione Ragoneturaga, Molea Tigi, Fordney Junior, Rusiate Doidoi, Christopher Wasasala, Eparama Moraica, Lekima Gonerau, Netani Suluka, Taniela Waqa, Sekove Naivakananumi.
Flick Hygiene Suva: Akuila Mateisuva (C), Simione Nabenu, Remueru Tekiate, Ramzan Khan, Dave Radrigai, Bruce Hughes, Ravnesh Karan Singh, Joeli Ranitu, Joe Moses, Kavaia Rawaqa, Merrill Nand.