When you talk about the very first Fiji FACT in 1991 hosted at Ba’s Govind Park, one name still echoes in the hearts of Ba fans—Lote Delai.
The lanky defender etched his name into local football history by scoring the winning goal for Ba in the opening minute of play against Labasa, a strike that not only shocked their opponents but also set the tone for Ba’s unforgettable victory.
Delai’s goal slipped past Labasa’s goalkeeper Eugene Williams and stunned the crowd. It was the only goal of the match, yet it held the weight of an entire district’s hopes and pride.
That early blow disrupted Labasa’s momentum and allowed Ba to control the pace of the final. Behind the black outfit’s 1991 success was legendary coach, the late Farouk Janeman, and team manager Arvind Singh. The squad boasted iconic names like Vimal Sami, Teti Vosa, Jo Basudra, and Akuila Rova.
But for Delai, the victory was more than just tactics or talent it was about heart. Times Sport visited 60-year-old Delai at his home in Soweri Settlement in Ba, where the former footballer now enjoys a quiet life as a retired Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) worker, surrounded by his family, two children and three grandchildren. Reflecting on the match, Delai was humble yet passionate. “People often ask us how Ba managed to win during those years. It was all through dedication and sacrifice.
“We listened to our coaches, we trained hard, and most importantly—we played with pride,” he said.
“We didn’t play for money. We played for our families, our fans, and our small town. At the end of the day, we just wanted everyone to be happy.” Teamwork was their secret weapon. “It wasn’t about individual brilliance. We backed each other on and off the field.”
Celebrations That Lit Up the Town
As the final whistle blew at Govind Park, sealing Ba’s historic win, the people of Ba took their joy to the streets.
Car horns blared through the night, flags were waved proudly from windows and rooftops, and the black and white colours of Ba FC were paraded with pride.
“It felt like New Year’s Eve,” Delai recalled with a laugh.
“Everyone was out singing, dancing, cheering. The town came alive.” It was a celebration of not just a football victory, but of identity. That win symbolised what Ba football stood for unity, resilience, and unwavering support from its people.
A Career Built on Loyalty
Delai started his journey with Ba FC in 1983 and finally hung up his boots in 1997. That year, Ba again lifted the Fiji FACT title, though they shared it with Labasa after a draw in the final. For Delai, both titles were precious but the 1991 win remains unforgettable.
“Nothing beats that first win. To score in front of our home crowd, to feel the energy of Govind Park erupt. That’s something I’ll never forget.” He also shared insights into their playing style. “We used the 4-4-2 formation that day—a simple but effective strategy. You hardly see it now, but it was our strength back then.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Delai’s dazzling lone goal will forever be etched in the annals of Fiji FACT history.
He lives to tell the tale of this historic final which further cemented Ba’s bragging rights as football giants of Fiji. For the people of Ba, they’ll always remember the lanky defender who gave them a reason to believe—and a reason to cheer.
