Nadi Sports Club showcased an impressive display of teamwork and skill to clinch the Som Padyachi Cup by defeating South Seas Club from Lautoka with a score of 9–5 in a thrilling snooker match. The competition, held in an electrifying atmosphere, epitomized the essence of discipline and athletic excellence.
The home team set the stage early in the match as Rimal Narayan and Shivan Goundar teamed up to win the opening set, establishing a strong foundation for Nadi. Their momentum surged further when David Reddy and Vineel Nand elevated the lead to 4–0, putting significant pressure on the Lautoka contingent.
Nadi’s captain Kailash Goundar rose to the occasion, delivering a masterful performance that added another win to the team’s tally, solidifying their dominance in the match. Fiji’s top-ranked snooker player, Sahil Prasad, also made a statement on the table with a notable victory over Esala Talebula, helping Nadi maintain a commanding grip on the contest.
South Seas Club attempted to rally back with Nitesh Chand winning a frame, but Nadi proved to be relentless in their pursuit of victory. The triumph was eventually secured when Mahendra Deo and Jashwin Nair both delivered strong performances, complementing Naushad Khan’s success in his match, ensuring the prestigious Som Padyachi Cup remained with Nadi.
After the match, captain Kailash Goundar attributed the team’s success to their unity and support from their families, stating, “This victory belongs to every player and their families who supported us. The teamwork, unity, and commitment shown by the boys made this achievement possible.” He also expressed gratitude towards Som ‘Uncle’ Padyachi, the club’s president and a former Fiji snooker champion, whose presence motivated the players throughout the competition. Additionally, appreciation was extended to supporter Eddie for contributing to the team’s post-match celebration.
The club emphasized that the victory was a collective accomplishment, acknowledging members who did not play in the main matches but contributed to the team’s spirit. Looking ahead, Nadi Sports Club is set to shift its focus to the Northwest Snooker League, eager to face new challengers and defend their newly acquired title.
Ultimately, the evening was more than just about winning; it celebrated camaraderie, sportsmanship, and a shared love for the game of snooker, providing a positive atmosphere both on and off the table.
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