Labasa secured a spot in the semifinals of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship with a 2-1 victory over host Lautoka in a thrilling Group A match at Churchill Park. The team, coached by Ravneel Pratap, previously won against Suva and maintained their consistent form against Lautoka with key changes in their starting lineup, including the addition of Anish Khem and Akeimi Ralulu.
Veteran striker Christopher Wasasala was pivotal for Labasa, scoring both goals in the first half. He first found the net in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a defensive mistake and striking the ball past goalkeeper Beniamino Mateinaqara. Wasasala doubled the lead in the 43rd minute with a spectacular shot that hit the roof of the net, giving Labasa a 2-0 advantage at halftime.
Lautoka responded in the second half when Saula Waqa scored in the 49th minute with a powerful shot that beat veteran goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau. However, Wasasala’s game came to an early end after receiving a second yellow card, putting additional pressure on Labasa as Lautoka sought to equalize.
Despite persistent threats from Waqa and Sairusi Nalaubu, Labasa’s defense, led by Netani Suluka, Sekove Naivakananumi, and Lekima Gonerau, held firm, allowing the team to maintain their lead until the final whistle.
Looking ahead, Labasa will face Navua in their final group match at 4 p.m. tomorrow, while Lautoka will encounter Suva in the last match of Day 3 at 8 p.m.