Experienced player Manasa Nawakula scored a crucial goal in the 104th minute, leading Tavua to a 1-0 victory over a youthful and spirited Nasinu team in the Premier Division final of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The match was tightly contested, with neither team able to secure a goal during the standard ninety minutes despite numerous scoring opportunities. Nawakula, who previously played as a defender for the national team, Ba, and Lautoka, showcased his skills by finding the net midway through the first half of extra time, evading goalkeeper Emori Ragata.
Nasinu, featuring talented young players such as Maikah Dau and Raul Chandra, along with experienced players Jone Naraba and Nasoni Mereki, fought hard for an equalizer. However, Tavua’s strong defensive performance proved critical as they held on for the win.
For their triumph, Tavua received a prize of $6,000, while Nasinu took home $2,000.