In their debut at the RC Manubhai/APCO Coatings International Veterans Tournament, Tailevu Naitasiri claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Navua veterans this morning. The match took place at the Fiji FA headquarters in Vatuwaqa, marking an encouraging start for the newcomers.
The only goal of the match was scored by former Labasa and Tailevu Naitasiri representative Nalinesh Reddy, demonstrating the players’ experience and skill. Coach and player Akilesh Ram highlighted the team’s spirit, explaining that they prepared for two weeks leading up to the tournament. The composition of the squad includes friends reconnecting through football, creating an enjoyable atmosphere on the field.
Ram expressed gratitude for the support from sponsors who facilitated their preparations on short notice, enabling the expansion of their team as they reached out to potential players. Many members of the group are participating in a veterans’ tournament for the first time. Notably, one player over the age of 55 played for over 20 minutes, showcasing the inclusiveness of the team.
With this promising start, the veterans from Tailevu Naitasiri now set their sights on the finals scheduled for this Sunday at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
In other matches, Nasinu Masters narrowly defeated Suva Masters 1-0, while Nasinu Legends triumphed over Suva Legends with a solid 2-0 win, contributing to an exciting tournament atmosphere.
This exciting reveal not only reflects the competitive nature of the veterans’ tournament but also signifies the joy of rekindling friendships and sporting camaraderie through football. The hopeful trajectory of Tailevu Naitasiri may inspire both fans and participants to continue engaging in local sports with enthusiasm.
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