Labasa achieved a 2-1 victory over host team Lautoka in an exciting Group A match of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship at Churchill Park tonight, securing their place in the semifinals. Under the guidance of coach Ravneel Pratap, Labasa followed up their 3-1 win against Suva yesterday with a strong performance against the Blues, featuring Anish Khem and Akeimi Ralulu in the starting lineup.
Christopher Wasasala showcased his skills by scoring both of Labasa’s goals in the first half. He opened the scoring in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a defensive mistake to send the ball past goalkeeper Beniamino Mateinaqara. Wasasala doubled the lead in the 43rd minute, expertly placing his shot into the top corner as Labasa entered halftime with a 2-0 advantage.
Lautoka responded quickly after the break, as Saula Waqa pulled one back with a well-placed strike in the 49th minute, leaving veteran goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau with no opportunity to save. However, Labasa faced some challenges when Wasasala received a second yellow card and was sent off, increasing the pressure on the team as Lautoka sought to equalize.
Waqa and Sairusi Nalaubu posed a constant threat to Labasa’s defense, but solid performances from Netani Suluka, Sekove Naivakananumi, and Lekima Gonerau helped the Northerners maintain their lead until the final whistle.
Labasa, sponsored by Extra Supermarket, is set to face Navua in their final group match tomorrow at 4 PM, while Flick Hygiene Lautoka will play against Suva in the last match of Day 3 at 8 PM.