Ali shines in the rain
Striker Alfred Ali, 23, scored the winning goal to help Navua clinch their back to back senior division title in the Courts Inter District Championship at Nadi’s Prince Charles Park yesterday. Siga Ali’s younger brother, Alfred scored the winning goal in the 82nd minute after Nadroga failed to clear a corner kick.
The win summed up Navua’s record of being unbeaten after 30 matches since last season.
This win is a bonus after Navua have being guaranteed a spot in the Vodafone Premier League competition next season.
The Stallions’ failure to capitalise on their changes during the encounter cost them the final.
Their failure to put their act together despite the presence of Sunny Deol, Tomasi Tuicakau, Krishneel Dutt and Jonas Naceva saw many opportunities go begging. Navua who could have gone ahead in the 54th minute but captain Vineet Chand’s penalty kick was stopped by Nadroga goalie Sakeo Taganeca. Referee Salesh Chand pointed to the spot after a Navua player was brought down in the goal. Navua had the services of old hands in the likes of Netani Doli, Seveci Rokotakala, Joseph Elder, Mosese Balenagaga, and Rajnesh Raju who returned to the team after serving his suspension.
New Zealand-based Naceva was awarded the Golden Boot Award of the IDC. Navua coach Mohammed Shafil was speechless after the final.
“It is the boys’ discipline and commitment which got us the victory,” he said after the win had sunk in. “The commitment and support of the officials and fans back home drove the team to stay focused. “We came prepared because Navua is known as giant killers. We came and worked harder and won.”
STALLIONS TO TRY AGAIN
Shafil thanked Koromakawa, Rajiv Service Station and the Navua FA president for being the backbone of the team.
Nadroga coach Ramesh Sharma said it ws a good match despite not scoring in the final.
“We knew Navua is a champion side, but luck was not on our side. We will definitely come stronger next year.”
Navua scooped $7500 while Nadroga settled for $2500 for their efforts. In the semi-finals on Saturday, Nadroga came from behind to beat Savusavu 2-1 while Navua proved too strong for Lami winning 4-2 in the second semifinal.