Jerome Narayan, the top-choice goalkeeper from Sydney, has been omitted from the Bula Boys’ squad for the upcoming MSG Presidents Cup in Honiara, Solomon Islands. He has been replaced by Joela Biuvanua from Nadi. Joining veteran goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau and Akuila Mateisuva, Biuvanua will be part of the team’s efforts in the tournament.
Narayan played in all of Fiji’s World Cup qualifier group matches held in Suva and Port Moresby, demonstrating his crucial role in the team. However, other overseas-based players, including Captain Roy Krishna, Scott Wara, and Leroy Jennings, will also be missing from the squad due to various reasons. Notably, Ratu Tevita Waranaivalu, the 2024 Footballer of the Year, has been given time for recovery from injuries.
This situation opens up opportunities for younger talents such as Samuela Navoce from Ba, Sailasa Ratu, and Penisoni Tirau, along with Mohammed Ayman from Nadi and Eparama Moraica from Labasa. The inclusion of these young players indicates a positive strategy to develop future talent within the national team.
The MSG Prime Minister’s Cup is scheduled to take place in the Solomon Islands from December 9 to 21.
Fiji’s squad features:
Goalkeepers: Simione Tamanisau, Joela Biuvanua, Akuila Mateisuva.
Defenders: Mohammed Aymaan, Ivan Kumar, Mosese Nabose, Samuela Navoce, Gabirielle Matanisiga, Filipe Baravilala, Sterling Vasconsellos.
Midfielders: Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Aporosa Yada, Setareki Hughes, Nabil Begg, Sailasa Ratu, Rahul Krishna, Merril Nand, Dave Radrigai.
Forwards: Christopher Wasasala, Eparama Moraica, Sairusi Nalabu, Thomas Dunn, Penisoni Tirau.
This transition not only brings in fresh talent but also signals a new phase for the Bula Boys as they prepare to compete at an international level. With a focus on building a stronger foundation for the future, fans can look forward to potentially exciting performances from the emerging players during the tournament.
Leave a comment