The Nawaka Blues, coached by Vikash Chand, have become the first team to secure a spot in the 2024 Fiji FA National Club Championship, set to take place at the end of the year. This milestone was achieved following their 2-0 victory over Gandhi Lionz in the Sher Ali-sponsored Nadi Football Premier Local League final, held under the lights at Korovuto College grounds on Monday night. Mohammed Shalmeen and Shazil Valentine each contributed a goal in different halves of the match, despite the Blues playing with ten men.
The Nawaka Blues featured players such as William Valentine, Christopher Kumar, goalkeeper Samu Tamanisau, Shafeem Buksh, Mohammed Shalmeen, Sahil Valentine, and Mohammed Ayman. Coach Vikash Singh expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment, stating, “We aim to make the cut for the NCC, the ultimate dream for all teams, and we did it as a team.”
On the other hand, the Gandhi Lionz fielded players including Ame Votoniu, Christopher Chand, Vishant Reddy, and Ashneel Singh. The Blues had previously defeated Army FC 3-2 in a penalty shootout during the semi-finals, while Gandhi Lionz narrowly won against DCA ONE with a score of 2-1.
Lawrence Kumar, a member of the Nadi football board, remarked on the successful completion of the local league by Nadi FA. “Blues will represent Nadi FA in the NCC; we congratulate them on their victory and hope they can bring back the glory days that Tanoa FC experienced,” he stated. He also acknowledged the efforts of teams, officials, and supporters throughout the season, expressing hope for continued improvement in the upcoming year.
In the senior division final, Girni FC achieved their first-ever title by defeating DCA II 1-0. In the semi-finals, Girni FC also triumphed over Korovuto with a score of 1-0, while DCA II beat Barara FC by the same margin.