UPDATED: 7:53am – The Labasa Under-14 captain Jioji Vakawaqanitabua led by example as his two terrific saves in the penalty shootout was enough for them to edge Nadi 5-4 during the 42nd Vodafone Fijian Primary Schools Football Inter-District Championship.
Both teams were locked 1-1 at fulltime. Labasa coach, Amitesh Prasad said they were happy to win the title again after two years.
“It’s good to win after two years,” he said. “I’ve been with the team for the last three years and it’s great to be part of the winning team.” He praised Vakawaqanitabua for his effort.
“We lost the last IDC final to Lautoka where he could not play due to injury.” Nadi coach Edwin Achari thanked his boys for the performance. “It was well played, the boys played really well and I’m very proud of them,” he said.
“We knew that we came prepared for this but soccer is anybody’s game.” Labasa received $500 while Nadi returned home $250 richer.
Meanwhile, in the first semi-final Nadi hammered defending champions Suva 4-0, with two goals came striker Jonetani Saukuru, Josaia Vetawa and Aran Nadan. In the second semi-final Labasa defeated Ba 1-0 with Ilaitia Dule scoring.
Awards:
Golden Boot: Josaia Vetawa who scored 7 goals (Nadi); Golden Glove: Jioji Vakawaletabua (Labasa); Golden Ball (Best Player): Sohil Kumar (Nadi).
-Fiji Sun
