Labasa overcame an early setback to defeat Suva 3-1 in an exciting Group A match of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) held at Churchill Park in Lautoka today.
Both teams showcased their skills, with several near misses and impressive saves from goalkeepers Simione Tamanisau and Akuila Mateisuva. Suva drew first blood in the 41st minute when defender Joeli Ranitu scored via a header from a corner delivered by Joe Moses, leaving Tamanisau and his defense in disarray.
However, Labasa managed to equalize just before halftime when Bruce Hughes committed a foul on Lekima Gonerau inside the box. Christopher Wasasala calmly converted the resulting penalty, sending both teams into the break with a 1-1 scoreline.
Labasa took control in the second half, with veteran player Taniela Waqa scoring their second goal in the 51st minute following a well-coordinated play in midfield. In an effort to turn the tide, Suva Coach Babs Khan introduced Solomon Islanders Gagame Feni and Jaygrey Sipikana to strengthen their offensive lineup. Nonetheless, Labasa’s resilience paid off when striker Fordney Junior secured the victory with a stunning goal in the 87th minute during a counter-attack.
The teams that started the match were:
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.