Ba plans major celebration

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Ba’s Saiilasa Ratu and Lauoka’s Sitiveni Cavuilagi in action during the final of Courts IDC 2023 Super Premier Final at the HFC Bank Stadium. Picture: JONA KONATACI

Ba Football Association is planning a major celebration to mark their Inter-District Championship (IDC) win after eight years.

The Asif Khan-coached side defeated Western neighbours Lautoka 2-1 in the Super Premier final at the weekend.

Laced with youth sensations, Darold Kakasi and Etonia Dogalau’s first-half goals were enough to seal the victory for the Men-in-Black.

“The victory was the sweetest one as it has retained the lost glory of Ba and brought happiness and smiles on the faces of all Ba supporters, both in Fiji and abroad,” Khan said.

The Kamil Muslim College teacher acknowledged the support and guidance from Master Yogen Dutt and brother Sunil for their assistance in bringing the prestigious trophy to the soccer crazy town.

“The famous slang that used to describe the dominance of Ba in local football, ‘Ba toh Ba Hai’, seems to be back.

“It is a big achievement for me as a coach as well since this is my first major win as a Super Premier coach.”

Khan said plans were underway to celebrate the IDC win with their die-hard fans.

“Videos and congratulatory messages have been pouring in on social media and we would have a big celebration. Ba is known as the soccer giant of Fiji.”

The win also marks Ba’s 25th IDC title.

“People have started to believe in the Ba team. A young team that can go very far if they are united.

“Now it’s a matter of maintaining the team and hopefully more tournaments to be won,” Khan said.