Striker Maciu Dunadamu proved to be the hero, striking the game’s only goal in the second half to secure a 1-0 win over Ba in the final on Sunday.
Dunadamu was returning after a two-match suspension and his arrival proved timely for the loyal Labasa fans, who had turned out in great numbers to cheer their side to the long-awaited victory at TFL National Stadium in Suva.
“I dedicate this goal and the victory to my family, all the fans and the people I let down because of my suspension,” Dunadamu said.
In an evenly-fought final, the sides shared possession and each had several opportunities to score. But none were taken until Fijian international Dunadamu raced towards the Ba box in the 50th minute and unleashed a powerful shot into the top left-hand corner.
Delighted Labasa coach Gurjit Singh, who also guided the national team at the recent Pacific Games and has won the IDC before with Navua, said the camaraderie amongst the team was the key to its success.
“It was unity and team work which guided us in the final,” he said.
“A lot of people said the Labasa players did not have the right attitude and discipline. The boys have stayed together as a team over the last few weeks and today they played as a team to win.”
Labasa president Ajesh Sharma promised the fans a major title when he took on the role earlier this year and was pleased to have not let them down.
“I’m proud to say we have done something for the people of Labasa – the fans have been waiting a very long time for this,” he said.
The Lami players were also celebrating after winning the premier division title with a 3-1 victory over Tailevu Naitasiri.
Three early goals from Marlon Maemania, Mangi Oro and Navinesh Chand were enough to dethrone the defending champions, whose only response came from Shelveen Prasad in the 57th minute.
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