Experienced player Manasa Nawakula scored a decisive goal in the 104th minute, leading Tavua to a 1-0 victory over a youthful Nasinu team in the Premier Division final of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The match was a tightly contested affair, with neither team able to score during regular time despite several scoring opportunities. Nawakula, a former national player and defender for Ba and Lautoka, played an upfront role for the team coached by Dr. Diva Singh. He delivered the crucial goal midway through the first half of extra time, skillfully placing the ball past goalkeeper Emori Ragata.
Nasinu, featuring young talents such as Maikah Dau and Raul Chandra alongside veterans like Jone Naraba and Nasoni Mereki, pressed for an equalizer. However, Tavua’s strong defensive performance was instrumental in maintaining their lead until the final whistle.
As champions, Tavua received a prize of $6,000, while Nasinu took home $2,000 for their efforts in the tournament.