A wave of excitement swept through the Fiji Football Association’s academy grounds in Suva as the Ba women’s football team secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Labasa, clinching the prestigious Fiji FA Women’s Inter-District Championship title. This triumph concludes an impressive run for Ba, who showcased their skills over three days of intense competition in the capital.
The match witnessed a stirring start as Sereana Naweni propelled Ba into the lead with a goal just before halftime in the 45th minute. Luisa Tamanitoakula then doubled the advantage in the 65th minute, putting Ba in a commanding position. Though Labasa fought back with a goal from Selai Nai in the 75th minute, it was insufficient to change the outcome of the game.
Ba’s coach, Charlene Lockington, praised her team’s resilience and hard work, emphasizing their focused mindset throughout the tournament. “When Labasa scored, I reminded them during a water break that we don’t just want to be winners; we want to be champions because we’ve worked hard for it,” she expressed, acknowledging the sacrifices made by her players.
Conversely, Labasa’s coach, Roneel Ram, conveyed his disappointment in the result but took pride in his team’s performance. “That was not what I had expected, but I’m very proud of the way my girls played, especially against such a robust lineup from Ba, which includes experienced players and national representatives,” Ram remarked.
This victory not only highlights Ba’s dedication and talent but also underscores the rising competitiveness of women’s football in Fiji, pointing to a bright future for the sport in the region. As the sport gains traction, it is inspiring to see talented players striving for excellence and making their mark.