Despite finishing second runner-up in the pool stages, Ba completed a remarkable turnaround to win the Fiji FACT title after defeating Navua 3-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout at Subrail Park yesterday.
The final remained goalless after 90 minutes and extra time, forcing the match to be decided from the spot.
Navua missed three penalties while Ba missed one, as the Men in Black held their nerve to seal the title.
The victory ends a 16-year drought for Ba in the Fiji FACT, with their last title coming in 2010.
It also delivers a historic breakthrough at Subrail Park, ending a 51 year wait for a trophy at the venue, the last coming in 1975.
Ba coach Ravinesh Kumar described the win as a proud and emotional moment for the club and its supporters.
“I feel very happy for the people of Ba and the Ba fans. Ba has won a trophy at Subrail Park after 51 years, so this is a big moment in history,” he said.
Singh said a win in Labasa has been long overdue.
“The last time Ba won here was in 1975, and now, after 51 years, Ba has finally won this trophy at Subrail Park.
“The last time Ba won the Fiji FACT was in 2010, that’s 16 years ago.”
He said both sides deserved credit for a tough final.
“I would say the performance of the boys must be applauded.”
He said that Navua also played very well adding penalties was anyone’s game. Ba received $17,000 for the win while Navua walked away $5000 richer.
