DAYALS Sawmillers Ba FC delivered a heartfelt performance to defeat Navua 2-0 in round five of the Extra Premier League at Churchill Park in Lautoka yesterday, dedicating the victory to the late Tuimasi Manuca.
A minute of silence before kick-off set the tone for an emotional encounter, honouring the former national and Ba midfielder. Both sides then battled through a tight and competitive first half, heading into the break locked 0-0.
The Men in Black returned with renewed purpose after halftime, lifting their intensity and urgency. Their breakthrough came in the 56th minute when Ilisoni Logaivou found the net, with Ba players marking the moment by forming a ‘T’ sign on the sideline in tribute to Manuca.
Navua pushed to respond and created several chances but were unable to convert.
Ba’s task became tougher with less than 15 minutes remaining when Saidu Mohammed was shown a red card, reducing the side to 10 men.
However, the hosts held firm and sealed the win deep into stoppage time when Sairusi Nalaubu struck in the 94th minute.
Ba fans turned out in numbers dressed in black led by Tui Ba, Nai Taukei Nawaiviluri Ratu Sowani Cava, also lent his support, motivating the team before kickoff and watching from the stands.
Ba coach Shalen Lal said the win was a fitting tribute.
“This win is for Tuimasi Manuca. The second goal reminded us of him, that’s how he used to play.
“The players lifted their tempo in the second half and that gave us the win. At halftime, we spoke about urgency,” Lal said.
In other matches, Labasa and Suva played to a nil-all draw, Nadi thumped Tailevu Naitasiri 4-nil, Rewa and Nadroga played to a nil-all draw.
