Manasa Nawakula, an experienced utility player, netted a decisive goal in the 104th minute as Tavua triumphed over a youthful Nasinu team with a score of 1-0 in the Premier Division final of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) held at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The final match was tightly contested, with both teams unable to score in the regulation ninety minutes, despite several opportunities to take the lead. Nawakula, a former defender for the national team as well as Ba and Lautoka, showcased his skills while playing up front for the side coached by Dr. Diva Singh. He found the back of the net midway through the first half of extra time, beating goalkeeper Emori Ragata.
Nasinu, featuring young talents like Maikah Dau and Raul Chandra, along with experienced players Jone Naraba and Nasoni Mereki, strived for an equalizer. However, Tavua’s strong defense proved critical, allowing them to maintain their lead until the final whistle and secure the championship title.
As the winners of the Premier Division, Tavua received a prize of $6000, while Nasinu took home $2000.