Manasa Nawakula, an experienced utility player, scored a decisive goal in the 104th minute as Tavua defeated a youthful and determined Nasinu team 1-0 in the Premier Division final of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) held at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The match was competitive and close, with both teams unable to break the deadlock during regulation time despite several scoring opportunities.
Nawakula, a former national defender for Ba and Lautoka, who was positioned upfront for Tavua under the coaching of Dr. Diva Singh, found the net midway through the first half of extra time, skillfully placing the ball past Nasinu’s goalkeeper, Emori Ragata.
Nasinu’s squad, featuring young talents like Maikah Dau and Raul Chandra, alongside experienced players such as Jone Naraba and Nasoni Mereki, pushed hard for an equalizer. However, Tavua’s solid defense proved crucial as they held on until the final whistle, securing the championship title.
Tavua was awarded $6,000 for their victory in the Premier Division, while Nasinu took home a prize of $2,000.