NADI claimed the Battle of the Giants with a convincing 6-2 win over Labasa at McLeod Athletic Park.
Nadi displayed true character, creativity, pace and backed it with a strong defence that stood their ground.
A brace from Javid Khan and Issiah Sahib, and one each from Aryan Naidu and Akaskh Sharma obliterated Labasa.
Manav Permal scored both the goals for Labasa.
Nadi’s performance delighted the swathes of Fijian fans who braved mixed weather conditions over the two-day tournament.
The district’s test of character was against Edmonton Ba, who had Lautoka’s Zibraaz Sahib, Rewa’s Samuela Kautoga and Ba’s Rahul Naresh, who got beat 2-1 at their own game in the semifinal.
Khan and Rylan Sangha scored to put Nadi into the final.
The dynamic duel played a key role and with their experience, the youngsters looked good who gave their all during the tournament.
“We played for one another, and for Nadi,” said Wasim Khan.
Javid who was not available for the opening pool games, made a difference against Edmonton Ba in the semifinal and in the final.
“Javid is an incredible footballer, who leads by example.
“We can’t be more proud of him and the efforts of the entire team,” Wasim said.
Wasim said head coach Zaid Mohammed and the management deserve praise for all the hard work, from training to coaching the team to victory.
Sahil Khan won the Most Valuable Player award, while Labasa’s Manav Permal won the Golden Boot award.
