Labasa rallied from a goal down 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, but it was Suva who struck first. Defender Joeli Ranitu scored in the 41st minute, heading in a corner from Joe Moses, which left Labasa’s goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau and his defense in disbelief.
Just before halftime, Labasa equalized when Bruce Hughes fouled Lekima Gonerau inside the penalty area. Christopher Wasasala converted the subsequent penalty, allowing the teams to head into the break tied.
In the second half, veteran Taniela Waqa put Labasa ahead in the 51st minute with a powerful shot following strong build-up play. Suva’s coach Babs Khan made substitutions, bringing in Solomon Islanders Gagame Feni and Jaygrey Sipikana to strengthen the attack. However, Labasa remained resolute and sealed their victory in the 87th minute when striker Fordney Junior finished off a counter-attack with a spectacular goal.
The starting lineups for both teams 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.