Last Sunday proved to be a momentous occasion for William Danford and his son, Gus, as they both made significant strides in the world of football. On his birthday, William scored the decisive penalty for the Navua Combine Masters in the final of the Battle of the Giants Veteran Tournament for players aged 40 and above. His contribution secured the win against Suva Combine, marking a sweet victory for a team that had previously fallen short in last year’s tournament by losing in a penalty shootout.
William reflected on the emotional weight of the victory, stating, “When we drew with Suva yesterday in the final, I was just thinking back to last year when Navua lost in the penalty kicks. So, when I was given the opportunity to kick, I just didn’t hesitate.” His pivotal role in this year’s success has been recognized by teammates, who praised his dedication both on and off the field.
Meanwhile, Gus, William’s fifteen-year-old son, continues to shine as a midfielder for the Navua senior team, which has successfully reached the semifinals of the Extra Battle of the Giants tournament. His performance has garnered attention and praise, particularly since he is training with more experienced players, enhancing his skills and understanding of the game. William expressed his pride in Gus’s commitment to football, noting, “He gets up on his own every morning and afternoon to train. I think training with the big senior team is also good for him. He’ll learn faster.”
As the Navua team prepares to face Labasa in the semifinals, anticipation builds within the community. The match is set for Saturday at 2 p.m., and they look forward to showcasing their growth and skills in an endeavor to secure further success in local football. The enthusiasm surrounding this family achievement in sport encapsulates the spirit of the community and highlights the nurturing of young talent like Gus within the Navua football scene.
The rise of both William and Gus reflects the broader narrative of resilience and hope in Fijian football. With ongoing support from fans and families, it appears that both the masters team and the rising stars of Navua are poised for exciting futures in the sport.
Leave a comment