Veteran striker Christopher Wasasala played a crucial role in securing victory for the Labasa football team, leading them to a 5-3 win in a penalty shootout against Navua during the grand final of the FMF Inter District Championship at Lautoka’s Churchill Park.
In an interview, Wasasala expressed his determination to succeed with the penalty, stating he wanted to redeem himself after a missed opportunity in the semi-final. “I was confident it would go in, as I aimed to restore my reputation,” he remarked. He also shared how he encouraged his teammates by volunteering to be the fifth kicker, promising to secure the win for Labasa, which he dedicated to their loyal fans.
The Labasa goals during the match were scored by Anish Khem, Sekove Naivakananumi, Rusiate Doidoi, and Lekima Gonerau. Navua responded with goals from Ali Mekawir, Filipe Baravilala, and Jared Rongosulia, although Vineet Chand’s attempt went astray.
An emotional Labasa coach Ravneel Pratap underscored the importance of district pride as a motivating factor. He praised the unwavering support from their fans, sponsors, and officials, particularly thanking Extra Supermarket for their constant aid throughout the season.
Pratap highlighted the team’s resilience, noting their comeback after suffering a 3-0 loss to Navua in the group stage earlier in the tournament. He acknowledged the strong performance of Navua, who provided a challenging match.
The Labasa team, known as the Babasiga Lions, was led by their 42-year-old goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau. Labasa is set to return home with a prize of $25,000, while Navua will take home $6,000. Additionally, both teams ended the second half with ten men after Akeimi Ralulu of Labasa and Navua’s Saimoni Damuni received red cards.