Leevan Dutta, captain of the Fiji men’s hockey team, achieved a significant milestone by earning his 50th international cap as his team triumphed in the Intercontinental Cup held at the National Hockey Centre in Suva. The men’s team secured victory over the Solomon Islands with a score of 6-3, while Vanuatu claimed bronze by defeating Samoa 4-3.
At 32 years old, Dutta has had a notable hockey career, having started at the age of 15. Reflecting on the game, he acknowledged that while the team struggled initially, they found their rhythm in the second half and secured the win. He expressed pride in their performance and commended the Fiji Hockey Federation for hosting the Pacific Cup, which eased travel for the players.
Dutta praised debutants Kirk Corrie, Dale Johanssen, and George Ravatu for their contributions to the team’s success, noting that they demonstrated their ability to compete at this level. He also emphasized the importance of the Warriors team in exposing more players to high-level competition, which bodes well for the sport’s future.
The men’s victory came amidst another commendable performance by the Fiji women’s hockey team, which remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. They secured the Pacific Cup by defeating Samoa 8-2 and edged past New Zealand Pasifika 2-0 in a shootout after a 2-all tie in regular time.
Both Dutta and Melba Nautu were the standout players in their respective teams, with Dutta scoring 19 goals and Nautu netting 13 goals during the tournament.
This has been a remarkable week for Fiji hockey, showcasing the talent and resilience of both the men’s and women’s teams. The achievements of these athletes not only honor their dedication but also shine a light on the growing prominence of hockey in Fiji.
In summary, the successful outcomes for both teams signal a promising future for hockey in Fiji, fostering hope that this sport will continue to develop and inspire young athletes across the nation.
Leave a comment