The stage is set for the Vodafone Fiji FACT in Labasa, the hub of the “Friendly North”. Hats off to the hard working town administrator Vijay Chand and his staff members for all the work done at Subrail Park and keeping it in tip-top form for three days of soccer. Thank you FFA for taking a major tournament to the North. This means a lot to the people of the North. It is with immense pride that Labasa is hosting the 25th Fiji FACT after the 1999 mishap against Lautoka and I am confident that the Lions are ready to do their fans and families proud. History has shown that when Labasa hosted the Fiji FACT, it has played the final, winning two and losing one.

After losing to Ba in the ’91 final via a Lote Delai goal in 1992, with the likes of Ramend Dutt, Peters, Namoce, Narara, Lomu, Buli, Catarogo, Levaci and Tuilevuka, the Lions contained a star-studded Nadroga outfit led by Natasiwai, Mosese Jese, Tasere, Work, Anirudh, Nawalu, Tubi, Bineshwar and Vinod Kumar.

Fans basked in glory as the Lions tasted victory at home. However, things turned ugly at home in 1995 when the Capital City boys, rejuvenated by Visawaqa, Nemani, Tubuna, Jitend and Lasaqa thrashed the home side 4-0 much to the disbelief and disappointment of the vocal fans. A lot of rumours went around the corners of the town. Only the Labasa players knew what went wrong.

However, fans had their faith restored when Labasa won the 1997 BOG at home with a stunning free kick from their bhagwaan Taniela Tuilevuka and in ’99 our victory turned sour when the Blues walked off the field claiming that Vosaboto was stoned after Labasa led 2-1.

A week later FFA declared Labasa winners. Last year after trailing Lautoka 2-0 in the semi-final, the Lions bounced back to score three goals and then went on to thrash the Delta Tigers 2-0. Thus, as I wish the Babasiga Lions all the best in their title defence, I thank our radio stations for the lively talkback shows and the participating teams the best. I rest with hopes that you will enjoy the “Friendly North” hospitality.