Veteran striker Christopher Wasasala once again played a crucial role for the Labasa football team as they secured a 5-3 victory in a penalty shootout against Navua during the FMF Inter District Championship final held at Lautoka’s Churchill Park last night.
In an interview, Wasasala expressed his determination to succeed when he stepped up to take the decisive penalty, especially after facing criticism for missing an earlier penalty in the semi-finals. He stated, “I had made up my mind that it was going in, as I wanted to salvage my reputation.”
Wasasala noted that despite various challenges throughout the season, the team remained strong leading into the final. He announced to his teammates that he would take the fifth penalty and ensure victory, dedicating the win to all Labasa supporters. Other goals for Labasa were netted by Anish Khem, Sekove Naivakananumi, Rusiate Doidoi, and Lekima Gonerau.
For Navua, goals came from Ali Mekawir, Filipe Baravilala, and Jared Rongosulia, while Vineet Chand missed his attempt. An emotional coach Ravneel Pratap highlighted the pride that motivated the team, acknowledging the support from fans, sponsors, and officials. He reflected on the challenging season they had faced but felt blessed to overcome a previous 3-0 defeat to Navua during the group stages.
Pratap praised Navua as a formidable opponent and expressed gratitude for the support from sponsors like Extra Supermarket, which provided essential resources. Labasa, known as the Babasiga Lions and led by 42-year-old goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau, will return home with $25,000 in prize money, while Navua will receive $6,000.
Tensions flared during the match, resulting in red cards for Labasa midfielder Akeimi Ralulu and Navua’s Saimoni Damuni in the second half, leaving both teams to finish the match with 10 players.