Last year’s runners-up, the NZFFI Manukau All Stars, have successfully secured their place in the semi-finals of the 2024 Flick Hygiene Pacific Community Cup after a decisive 3-1 win against Navua FC at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The All Stars showcased their prowess with goals scored by Alex Senial, Jack Caunter, and Garbhan Coughlan, solidifying their position in the tournament. Navua faced a significant challenge in the second half when their goalkeeper, Jovilisi Borisi, was issued a red card. Despite the odds against them, player Filipe Baravilala managed to find the net for Navua, scoring a consolation goal in the 59th minute.
Following the match, captain Jack Caunter expressed pride in his team’s performance and resilience. He noted, “That was good. The boys got through without any injuries, which was our main concern. Once we went a couple of goals up, we felt relatively comfortable.” Caunter highlighted the importance of discipline, stating their focus was on avoiding yellow cards and maintaining composure on the field, ultimately leading to a successful outcome.
Reflecting on their journey, Caunter admitted the team’s early struggles but emphasized the boost in morale from their recent win. “After losing the first game, we were a bit down, but yesterday’s result really got the boys excited about what we could achieve. We’re taking it one game at a time, and now, it’s on to the semi-finals—we’re up for it.”
This victory not only advances the All Stars in the tournament but also serves as a testament to their growth and determination as a team. As they move forward into the semi-finals, there is a palpable sense of excitement and confidence surrounding the team’s potential success.
The NZFFI Manukau All Stars exemplify the spirit of resilience and teamwork, promises to be an exhilarating journey ahead as they aim for victory in the upcoming matches.
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