LABASA’S Northpole FC have successfully defended its Dayal Sawmillers National Club Championships title with a commanding 3-0 victory over Ba’s 4R FC.
Northpole opened the scoring in the 13th minute following a brilliantly executed team move finished by Ratu Anare.
They continued to apply relentless pressure on 4R and finally broke through again in the 44th minute when Rusiate Doidoi outpaced the goalkeeper to the ball.
With superb ball control, the midfielder scored a powerful goal, ending the first half with a commanding 2-0 lead.
As the second half commenced, the crowd sensed the confidence within the Northpole side, who dominated possession and forced 4R to play most of the half in their own half.
Despite a heavy downpour, Northpole played some excellent football.
Although 4R created a few scoring opportunities, they were unable to capitalise.
In the 84th minute, after some brilliant counter-attacking moves, Ilisoni Lolaivau broke through the 4R defence and struck a powerful goal, securing the title for the Labasa-based team for the second consecutive year.
Northpole’s head coach, Alvin Chand, praised his players for their hard work, particularly their second-half effort to finish the game strongly.
“At half-time we were leading 2-0, so I told the boys to maintain their composure and not become complacent. This is football, and with another 45 minutes remaining, anything can happen,” Chand explained.
He added that this year’s victory meant a great deal to the team.
“Winning the title is one thing, but it takes twice the effort to defend it, so this is very special,” he said.
Chand dedicated the win to all their fans and sponsors.
He also paid tribute to their president.
