Labasa triumphed over Navua in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 5-3 to secure the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Star striker Christopher Wasasala delivered the winning kick for the Babasiga Lions, clinching the prestigious title.
The match began at a frenetic pace, with both teams launching early attacks. Labasa’s Wasasala, Tigi Molea, and Fordney Junior posed constant threats, while Navua’s Thomas Dunn, Simione Damuni, and the quick Usaia Tilivarua challenged Labasa’s defense. Both goalkeepers, Simione Tamanisau and Jovilisi Borisi, were kept on their toes, making crucial saves throughout the first half, which ended without any goals.
To change the game dynamics, Labasa made a substitution at halftime, replacing Molea with Ilisoni Loloivalu. Navua also made a change, bringing in Sunny Deol for Jackson Wale. The second half saw an increase in intensity, with tensions rising on the field. Referee Torika Delai had to send off Labasa’s Akeimi Ralulu and Navua’s Domoni, leaving both teams with ten players.
In the closing minutes, Dunn nearly found the net, only to be thwarted by Labasa’s Sitiveni Rakai. Just moments later, Wasasala had a chance to score but his shot lacked the power needed to challenge Borisi.
With neither team able to break the deadlock in regulation time or during the extra periods, the championship was decided by penalty kicks. Labasa converted all their attempts with Wasasala, Anish Khem, Sekove Naivakananumi, Rusiate Doidoi, and Lekima Gonerau finding the net. For Navua, Vineet Chand, introduced right before the shootout, missed his shot, while Ali Mekawir, Filipe Baravilala, and Jared Rongosulia successfully scored.
As a result of their victory, Labasa received a prize of $25,000, medals, and the winner’s trophy, while Navua was awarded $6,000 for reaching the final. The lineups for both teams included key players that contributed throughout the intense match, showcasing the talent on both sides.