LABASA U14 girls walked away $800 richer after defeating Rewa 1-0 to claim the girls’ division title at the Extra Supermarket and Dayals Fiji Primary School Football Inter-District Championship at 4R Stadium in Ba yesterday.

The northern side displayed determination, skill and teamwork to overcome a resilient Rewa outfit in a closely contested final played under the scorching sun.

Both teams came into the match determined to finish their campaign on a high, producing an entertaining contest as they battled for possession and searched for the breakthrough.

The first and second halves saw both sides demonstrate impressive football skills and techniques, with their defensive units working hard to deny their opponents clear scoring opportunities.

Despite the intense heat, the players maintained their determination and continued to fight for every ball, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats as the two teams remained locked in a goalless deadlock at full-time.

The match was eventually decided in extra time when Labasa increased the pressure and found a way through Rewa’s defence.

The breakthrough came in the first half of extra time when 13-year-old Ansharia Alina found the back of the net to give Labasa the decisive goal.

The strike proved to be the difference between the two sides as Labasa held on to secure the 1-0 victory and lift the U14 girls’ title.

Alina, a Year Eight student of Valebasoga Primary School, was delighted to contribute to her team’s success with the winning goal.

“We played hard and was awarded with all our hard work and I managed to score a goal,” she said.

She dedicated the victory to the people of Labasa and those who had supported the team throughout its campaign.

“This win is for all people of Labasa, our family for always supporting us,” Alina said.

The victory capped a memorable campaign for the Labasa girls, who were rewarded for their hard work and perseverance with the championship title and the $800 prize money.