The Fiji Police Force has announced a strong 25-member football squad as they prepare for the Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl. This follows their participation in the recent inter-district championship (IDC), where the Western Two team triumphed at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori last Saturday.
Key player Sairusi Nalaubu, a national representative and striker for Lautoka, scored the decisive goal in extra time, leading his team to a narrow 1-0 victory over the Police Mobile Forces (PMF). Team manager ASP Mohammed Riyaz dedicated the win to the dedicated police officers in the Western Division, spanning from Rakiraki to Sigatoka, highlighting the significance of their effort.
The Fiji Police last secured the title five years ago. Riyaz stated, “This is for our families and the division commander too. It was a team effort.” He noted that the team managed to balance their training with work commitments while serving their communities.
Seven players from the victorious IDC team have been included in the squad for the Sukuna Bowl. “We’ll see how we perform against the men in green during the Sukuna Bowl. We’ll give them a hard time,” Riyaz added.
The squad includes: Akuila Mataisuva, Jovilisi Borisi, Joela Bainivanua, Taniela Baivatu, Madhvan Goundar, Iliesa Lino, Tevita Waranivalu, Isikeli Tamanisiga, Abishek Kumar, Sairusi Nalaubu, Sikeli Ratucava, Viliame Vakatalesau, Siddhant Kumar, Sumit Goundar, Vikrant Chandra, Simione Tamanisau, Sitiveni Rakai, Ilisoni Lolaivalu, Kalivati Nateru, Amitesh Goundar, Remueru Tekiata, Ilaisa Nayasi, Ratu Anare, Semi Matalau, and Joeli Ranitu.