Tabia Sanatan College wins schools tourney

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Tabia Sanatan College striker Apenisa Dulukobau (front) controls possession against Vunimono High School during their match in the Extra Fiji Secondary Schools Football Championship U19 final at the 4R Stadium at Govind Park in Ba. Picture: REINAL CHAND

Tabia Sanatan College is the new champion of the under-19 grade at the Extra Fiji Secondary School Football Championship after edging out favourites Vunimono High School 1-0 in extra time yesterday.

Both teams stuck to their game plans and were locked 0-0 at halftime.

Vunimono dominated possession in the second half but failed to convert their chances as Tabia’s defenders held strong, forcing the match into extra time.

In the first half of extra time, Apenisa Dulukobau broke the deadlock with a composed finish, handing Tabia the decisive goal.

The Northerners then held their ground in the second period of extra time with solid defence to seal a memorable 1-0 victory.

Tabia Sanatan College principal Jitendra Prasad praised the team’s efforts and acknowledged the strong support from their fans.

“We came prepared to win and take the trophy back to Labasa, and we have done it,” he said.

“I must thank all our fans and supporters for coming out in numbers to cheer us on.”