In a thrilling finale at the Fiji Football Academy Grounds in Vatuwaqa, Ba Women’s Football Team clinched their second consecutive Digicel Women’s Inter District Championship title. The delayed 2023 tournament concluded this afternoon with Ba defeating Labasa Women’s FC 4-1 in a high-energy match.
Labasa initially took the lead in the second half when Narieta Leba successfully converted a penalty, breaking the deadlock and putting her team ahead. However, Ba’s resilience and skill quickly turned the game around. The tournament’s best player, Cema Nasau, responded decisively with two goals in rapid succession. Her first goal, a powerful shot just outside the 18-yard line, equalized the score. Moments later, Nasau showcased her exceptional talent with an acrobatic bicycle kick, propelling Ba into the lead.
The young and promising talent of 15-year-old Elesi Tabunase further extended Ba’s advantage with a well-executed goal. The victory was sealed by Captain and national women’s rep Luisa Tamanitoakula, who delivered a powerful shot, marking Ba’s fourth goal of the match.
Despite the loss, Labasa’s captain Sofi Diyalowai earned the golden boot award for her impressive tally of 10 goals throughout the tournament. Mereseini Waqali was recognized with the golden glove award for her outstanding goalkeeping. The golden ball award for the tournament’s best player went to Cema Nasau, whose remarkable performance was instrumental in Ba’s triumph.
Ba’s exemplary sportsmanship was also acknowledged, as the team won the fair play award for avoiding any cards during the tournament – a testament to their disciplined and respectful play.
