Extra Supermarket Labasa FC triumphed in the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC), defeating Stratum Constructions/Zeg Investment Navua FC 5-3 in a penalty shootout during the Super Premier final at Churchill Park, Lautoka. The match ended goalless after both the mandatory 90 minutes and 30 minutes of extra time, leading to the dramatic shootout.
In a fiercely contested battle, the Babasiga Lions applied constant pressure on Navua’s goal, with striker Christopher Wasasala leading the charge. Despite numerous attempts, they were unable to break the deadlock, thanks in part to the outstanding performance of Navua goalkeeper Jovilisi Borisi, who worked tirelessly to keep his team in the match.
Navua also threatened Labasa’s defense, with Thomas Dunn coming close to scoring on several occasions. However, the match took a turn when a scuffle broke out, resulting in the send-off of Labasa’s Akeimi Ralulu and Navua’s Simione Damuni.
As the match progressed to penalties, Wasasala stepped up to take the decisive kick that secured the championship for Labasa. The shootout proved tense, with Navua’s Vineet Chand missing a crucial penalty, sealing their fate.
Labasa’s coach, Ravneel Pratap, praised his team for their effort, stating, “It was a tough match, but the boys played their hearts out for their fans, family, and supporters. We kept putting pressure on Navua’s goal, and we eventually came away with the win.”
In addition to the championship victory, several individual awards were presented: Navua FC received the Fair Play team award, John Orobulu of Rewa FC took home the Golden Boot Award for being the top goal scorer in the competition, while Labasa’s Simione Tamanisau received the Golden Glove award. The Golden Ball award was awarded to Navua’s Thomas Dunn, and Taniela Waqa of Labasa received the Fiji FA President’s award.
In other finals, Rakiraki FC won the senior division title against Dreketi FC in a thrilling 8-7 penalty shootout, and Tavua FC secured the Premier Division title with a 1-0 win over Nasinu FC.
