Former national and Ba striker Taito Bula passes on

The Fiji Football Association president Rajesh Patel, its board members and the entire football fraternity is saddened to learn about the passing away of former national and Ba striker Taito Bula.

Bula died at his home in Nailaqa Village in Ba last night at the age of 53.

He made his debut for Ba in 1989 after coming in as a substitute in a 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Nadroga during a National Football League match.

Bula was a member of the national football team that created, history by winning its first South Pacific Games gold medal in Lae, Papua New Guinea. He scored the winning goal against New Caledonia in the semi-final.

Bula was the country’s most feared striker at the height of his football career.

His speed, uncanny dribbling skills, powerful right-footer, aggressive approach and never-say-die attitude was a nightmare to defenders who dared to cross his path.

He attended Ratu Rusiate Nabuta Memorial School before moving to Ba Methodist High School and then to Kamil Muslim College.

Bula played alongside some of the country’s football greats like Ravuama Madigi, Rova, brothers Lote and Meli Delai, Shiu Sami, Afroz Ali, Abdul Manan, Ronald Chaudhary, Radike Nawalu, Tagi Vonolagi and many more.

After 10 years of playing for Ba, Bula moved to Lautoka along with goalkeeper Iosefo Vosaboto and Jope Namawa. He played for the Blues for one season before retiring.

Patel acknowledged the supreme contribution by Bula in the football arena.

“It’s a huge loss. He had been a great footballer and an inspirational leader of his time.

“I convey my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolence to the grieving family and I pray to the Almighty that his soul rests in peace.”

He is survived by his wife and five children.

One of their sons Luke Savu played for Ba and Nasinu.