All Whites, Ferns, and other international teams

Oceania Futsal Qualifiers

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Sorry fella, my itchy trigger finger deleted one of your posts by accident...it said:

The Oceania Futsal Qualifiers begins this week. There are 7 nations competing for the one Oceania spot to go directly to Brasil in September for the FIFA Futsal World Cup.

The Futsallwhites open the 7 day competition vs Solomon Islands. Victor Zaia and Greg O'Connor from Marist FC and Capital Futsal are the two Wellington representatives in the 12 man squad.

Stay tuned for regular updates when the competition starts on 8th June in Suva, Fiji.

Press Release from NZ Futsal for the upcoming Oceania Qualifiers (the names in bold are from Capital Futsal). Posted first on Yellow Fever!

FutsAllwhites (New Zealand National Futsal Team) looking forward to OFC Futsal Championship

The New Zealand national Futsal team, the FutsAllwhites, is looking
forward to the upcoming OFC Championship which kicks-off in Suva, Fiji
on 8 June.

Recently appointed NZ coach Erkin Osman has been working extra hard
preparing his squad for a busy schedule which involves six games in
seven days.

Cypriot-born Osman came highly recommended and has an impressive CV as
player and coach which includes the only player to make four Futsal
World Cup appearances for Australia and coaching Socceroo and Everton
star, Tim Cahill as a junior.

The 12 man squad includes four from the previous campaign in 2004
where NZ finished runners-up to Australia. This time the FutsAllwhites are
hoping to go one better and qualify for the first time as the Oceania
representative at the FIFA Futsal World Cup later this year in Brazil.

Auckland Futsal club, East City provides the bulk of the squad with eight
players, one from Futsal North Shore, two from Capital Futsal in
Wellington and one from Brisbane.

NZ squad:

HOD: Gaye Powell
Coach: Erkin Osman

Manager: Barbara Gwilliam
Physio/Manager: Sebastian Cormier

1. Elias Billeh (GK), 20. Clayton Chappell (GK), 4. Marvin Eakins, 5. Yukin Naidoo,

8. Joshua Martin, 9. Andrew Gwilliam, 10. Ouadhah Ragued, 12. Luke Field, 14. Bakr Al Saudi
17. Victor Zaia, 19. Matt Corringham, 23. Greg O'Connor

Smithy2008-06-03 20:59:50

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

By the way Gaye Powell has been a tireless crusader for Futsal in NZ over the years.

Great to see she's still at it. One of the game's unsung heroes.

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

She sure is! I went with her to the last campaign as manager (Canberra 2004 - NZ finishing runners-up to........Australia!) I did not seen Gaye's name in the Queens Birthday Honours list for her dedication to a game that deserves a bigger profile.

How do you know Gaye?

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Not the best of starts for the FUTSALLWHITES with a 5-1 lose to the Solomon Islands. A result which puts them in the box-seat for Barsil. NZ now has another tough game today (4pm kick-off) vs Vanuatu who beat Tuvalu 6-0.( Local ref Jamie Cross was in charge for this game) Hosts Fiji opened their campaign with a 4-2 win vs New Caledonia.

The OFC review of the FUTSALLWHITES is below (please note I have it on good authority that Bakr Al Saudi scored and not local Capital Futsal player, Greg O'Connor)

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SOLOMON ISLANDS OPEN FUTSAL TOURNAMENT WITH DAZZLING DISPLAY

Sunday, 08 June 08, 04:40 PM

"The perfect way to start the tournament,"

That was how Solomon Island futsal coach Victor Wai'ia described his sides 5-1 romp over New Zealand in the opening match of the OFC Futsal Championships in Suva.

It was an exciting opening to the tournament with an adrenelin pumping opening minute resulting in Elliot Ragamo scoring the tournaments first goal for the Solomons to the delight of their boisterous army of support.

New Zealand had a chance to equalise soon after but Ouadhah Ragued's penalty was neatly saved by Solomon goalkeeper Alick Lioka.

Ellito Ragamo was the star of the show for the Solomon side and he added his second from the spot with one minute remaining in the first half.

He could have completed a first half hat trick if not for his missed penalty 30 seconds later.

But that wasn't going to slow him or the Solomon side down and in the second half they quickly made it 4-0 with goals in quick sucession to Micah Lea'alafa and Maffat Sikwa'ae.

Jenan Kapu finished the scoring with a long distance blast from outside the box and provided the icing on the cake for an impressive Solomon Island performance.

Gregory O'Connor scored a consolation goal for New Zealand with two minutes remaining.

Wai'ia said he was very happy with the way his side opened the tournament, and that they played to the gameplan.

"I was very confident going into the game, and 5-0 is a great scoreline for us. From here we will work on our weaknesses that I saw like communication in defence."

New Zealand coach Erkin Osman was dissapointed with the result but said his side will be better from the loss.

"Our defence was good but in our zone but we didn't put enough pressure on them."

"We lacked penetration and couldn't get them turned around.

We didn't deserve that game because we didn't play well enough, but there won't be many teams at this tournament better than the Solomon Islands."

Photos by Marc Peretic Wilson

SOL: 1. Alick LIOKA (GK); 2. Phillip HOUTARAU; 3. Elliot RAGOMO; 7. James EGETA; 12. Jack WETNEY;

SUBS: 4. Alfred PUNGUIKA; 5. Jenan KAPU; 6. Maffat SIKWï¿½AE; 8.Francis LAFAI; 9. Micah LEAï¿½ALAFA; 11. Ron GINIO; 13. StanleyPUAIRANA (RGK)

COACH: Victor WAIï¿½IA (SOL)

GOALS: 3. Elliot RAGAMO 2; 9. Micah LEAï¿½ALAFA; 6. Maffat SIKWAï¿½AE; 5. Jenan KAPU;

NZL: 1. Elias BILLEH (GK); 12. Luke FIElD; 19.Michael CORRINGHAM; 4.Marvin EAKINS; 8. Joshua MARTIN;

SUBS: 20. Clayton CHAPPEL; 5. Yukin NAIDOO; 14.Bakr AL SAUDI; 3. Andrew GWILLIAM; 10. Ouadhah RAGUED; 17. Victor ZAIA; 23. Gregory Oï¿½CONNOR;

COACH: Erkin OSMAN (AUS)

GOALS: 23. Gregory O'CONNOR

Referee: Amitesh BEHARI (FIJ)

2nd Referee: Rajnish DAVE (FIJ)

3rd Referee: Allan Alick (VAN)

Timekeeper: Peter L. PAKOATONG (VAN)

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Bugger.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Our keeper looks like he could be in the process of a bobsled.

Do any of the wgtn players play for a senion XI aside team?

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Victor plays for Marist, ex-BNU from memory. Hard News2008-06-10 11:46:29

How's my driving? - Whine here

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Both players from Wellington, Victor Zaia and Greg O'Connor, play for Marist in Capital Premier.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

CCFWGTN wrote:

How do you know Gaye?

I took a wellington youth team to the national futsal champs about ten years ago in Auckland.

Some great alumni from that trip: Mikey Halikias, Craig Henderson, Emma Humphries...And some less great: James Potter, Shannon Minnett, can't remember who else.

Anyway I met her there and kept in touch for a while in my time as a football administrator. Haven't spoken to her for ages (5+ years) though.

Smithy2008-06-10 13:53:40

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

O'CONNOR WINNER GIVES KIWI'S HOPE

The result keeps the FutsAllwhites in contention for Brasil but with the Solomons also winning it means NZ must win every game and for the Solomons to slip up. This afternoon the Solomons face hosts Fiji who too must win to keep their hopes alive. The pressure is on with the FutsAllwhites and Vanuatu hoping Fiji can do them a favour and steal the points off the Solomons. This then means NZ must start banging in the goals as goal difference could decide the eventual winner given they keep winning.

This afternoon NZ face Tahiti, who won their first game yesterday with Vanuatu up against New Caledonia but all eyes will be on the Solomons vs Fiji fixture which kicks-off later in the evening.

Victor Zaia and Greg O'Connor both play their outdoor football for Capital Premier side, Marist and futsal for Capital Futsal, current NZ National Futsal Champions.

See below for report on the game from OFC.

"FROM LOCAL HERO TO NATIONAL HERO"

Gregory O'Connor kept New Zealands OFC Futsal Championship dreams alive with the winning goal in their last minute 2-1 win over Vanuatu in the first game of match day two.

O'Connor was thrown on as a late sub by New Zealand coach Erkin Osman and he repaid his coach's faith with a right footed drive into the Vanuatu net to seal the valuable three points and throw his side a lifeline in the tournament.

New Zealand had gone ahead halfway through the second half when Andrew Gwilliam's long range shot squeezed between the legs of Vanuatu goalkeeper Chikau Mansale.

Vanuatu replied with a well earned equaliser five minutes from the end and it looked like the spoils were going to be shared after a rough physical match between two very even sides.

But O'Connor had a different idea and his quick turn and shot from inside the box was just what osman ordered and sparked jubilant celebrations from the NZ bench.

It was a tough pill to swallow for Vanuatu who had dominated large periods of the match but were let down again by some poor finishing.

Both sides now have one win and one loss and will be relying on the Solomon Islands to drop points if they stand any chance of winning the tournament.

Osman was delighted with the win and said that his side can't afford to drop any more points.

"We need to hope that someone can knock Solomon Islands over now and make sure we keep winning at all costs."

"I sent Greg (O'Connor) on shortly after they equalised in search of a goal. He's a very good player but a little in-experienced at this level and he had begun to run out of puff.

"He did the job and I'm proud of him and the boys of todays performance."

Vanuatu coach Marcellino Barthelemy was proud of his sides effort and said 'dissapointed' was not the right word to some up his feelings.

"The boys did their best and our tournament is not finished yet. Our tournament will be over on Saturday. This is a game we expected to be difficult and it was, but I am proud of my team."

NZL: 1. Elias BILLEH (GK); 4. Marvin EAKINS; 8. Joshua MARTIN; 10. Ouadhah RAGUED; 12. Luke FIELD;

SUBS: 20. Clayton CHAPPELL (RGK), 5. Yukin NAIDOO; 14. Bakr Al SAUDI; 3. Andrew GWILLIAM; 19. Michael CORRINGHAM; 17. Victor ZAIA; 23. Gregory Oï¿½CONNOR;

Coach: Erkin Osman (AUS)

VAN: 1. Chikau MANSALE; 3. Ben EDWARD; 5. Fedy VAVA; 6. Derek MALAS; 10. Jack Vira ALA;

SUBS: 2. Terry QUARE; 4. Lui SIFAS; 7. Ben HUNGAI; 8. Louis DOMINIQUE; 9. Siardon Mera TALKANAMAL; 11. Saen Wowut FANAI; 22. Daniel MANSALE;

Coach: Marcellino BARTHELEMY (VAN)

Referee: Scott KIDSON (AUS)

2nd Referee: Francois TROLLIARD (NCL)

3rd Referee: Amitesh BEHARI (FIJ)

Timekeeper: Rajnish DAVE (FIJ)

Refereeï¿½s Assessor: Massimo Raveino

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

To add Greg was the top scorer at the National Tournament and I have it on good authority that Victor will start this afternoon.

"Go the FutsAllwhites!"

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Who said "football is a funny old game?" Well it applies just as much to futsal as football. It can be so cruel at times and it happened tonight in Suva for the FutsAllwhites.

The FutsAllwhites are now technically out and playing just for pride even after 3 games. Vanuatu won the earlier game putting them on 6 points. The Solomons are currently playing Fiji. The Tahitian victory also puts them on 6 points after only 2 games. They had a bye in the first round and are still in contention. Everything to play for, for the Pacific nations but sadly it was just not to be for the Kiwis.

They have still 3 games to go vs Tuvalu, New Caledonia and Fiji. They have a bye after Tuvalu to recharge batteries and to regain some pride. But tonight just was not their night after their hopes were lifted after yesterdays victory over Vanuatu. Another game decided with a few minutes on the clock proving that in futsal, stay calm, never panic no matter what the score because if the score-line is tight you are always in with a chance if you believe. TAHITI SCORE IMPROBABLE COME FROM BEHIND VICTORY

Tuesday, 10 June 08, 06:45 PM

Tahiti scored an amazing 3-2 victory over New Zealand on match day three of the OFC Futsal Championships in Suva, Fiji.

Tahiti were trailing 2-1 with one minute and forty seconds to play before Michel Maihuri scored two goals in the space of 90 seconds to clinch the win in dramatic circumstances.

The game began at a breakneck speed with Tahiti scoring after two minutes through Romeo Patira before New Zealand equalized just five seconds later care of Joshua Martin.

The remainder of the first half was a cagey tense affair with both sides creating good chances but unable to convert them into goals.

Marvin Eakins looked like he had clinched the winner for New Zealand when his finish put the kiwis in front with two minutes left on the clock.

But the Tahitian side ï¿½ playing at their first ever OFC Futsal championship ï¿½ were not done and Maihuri scored the equalizer with 1.40 left on the clock.

The celebrations were intense from the Tahitian bench but they were nothing compared to the jubilation shown nine seconds from time when Maihuri headed home his second of the night to steal an improbable victory.

The Tahiti coaching staff were near speechless after the win and head coach Rani Bea stated that he had never given up.

ï¿½That was our game. Yesterday we did not play our game but today we showed what we can do. We are still alive in this competition.ï¿½

ï¿½I always believed. The last two minutes I brought on my four best players because I believed we could do it, and in this moment I am so happy.ï¿½

ï¿½When the goal came I thought of the country and everyone who we have done so proud. I am just so happy.ï¿½

ï¿½Tonight we will celebrate but tomorrow we will be back to work.ï¿½

New Zealand Coach Erkin Osman was bitterly disappointed with the loss and said the side missed too many chances early in the game.

ï¿½We created 25 or so chances and only converted two. You canï¿½t afford to do that.ï¿½

ï¿½Going 2-1 up with a minute to go, we should have been able to hold on, but we werenï¿½t desperate enough.ï¿½

ï¿½I put our best defenders on at the end to shut up shop but they still got in behind us, Iï¿½m very disappointed.ï¿½

Photos by Marc Peretic Wilson

NZL: 1. Elias BILLEH (GK); 4. Marvin EAKINS; 8. Joshua MARTIN; 17. Victor ZAIA; 23. Gregory Oï¿½CONNOR

SUBS: 20. Clayton CHAPPELL (RGK), 5. Yukin NAIDOO; 14. Bakr Al SAUDI; 3. Andrew GWILLIAM; 19. Michael CORRINGHAM; 10. Ouadhah RAGUED; 12. Luke FIELD

Coach: Erkin Osman (AUS)

Goals: 8. Joshua Martin 1ï¿½; 4. Marvin Eakins;

TAH: 1. Rehia DAVIO (GK); 3. Jimmy RIARIA; 4. Romeo PATIRA; 6. Michel MAIHURI; 7. Steeven TINO;

SUBS: 2. Matana BEA; 5. Lysis TAUHA; 8. Tetuanui TINOMOE; 9. Lorama BEA; 10. Usiera PUKOKI; 11. Amau TETUANUI; 12. Fernand TUANUA;

Coach: Rani BEA (TAH)

Goals: 4. Romeo Patira 1ï¿½; Michel Maihuri;

Referee: Allan ALICK (VAN)

2nd Referee: Amitesh BEHARI (FIJ)

3rd Referee: Stephanie PARAGE (NCL)

Timekeeper: Francois TROLLIARD (NCL)

Refereeï¿½s Assessor: Chandra SEGRAN (FIJ)

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Who said "football is a funny old game?" Well it applies just as much
to futsal as football. It can be so cruel at times and it happened
tonight in Suva for the FutsAllwhites.

The FutsAllwhites are now technically out and playing just for pride
even after 3 games. Vanuatu won the earlier game putting them on 6
points. The Solomons are currently playing Fiji. The Tahitian victory
also puts them on 6 points after only 2 games. They had a bye in the
first round and are still in contention. Everything to play for, for
the Pacific nations but sadly it was just not to be for the Kiwis.

They have still 3 games to go vs Tuvalu, New Caledonia and Fiji. They
have a bye after Tuvalu to recharge batteries and to regain some
pride. But tonight just was not their night after their hopes were
lifted after yesterdays victory over Vanuatu. Another game decided
with a few minutes on the clock proving that in futsal, stay calm,
never panic no matter what the score because if the score-line is
tight you are always in with a chance if you believe.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Wellington would get to Brazil...

Haha sorry Brian, just bitter!

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Pride was restored today in Suva with a 13-1 thrashing of Tuvalu. An excellent way to bounce back after yesterday's heartbreaking defeat to Tahiti in such cruel circumstances. Tomorow is a bye for the FutsAllwhites then it back on court vs New Caledonia. Here's hoping for a similar score-line!

See match report below from OFC website.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

AL SAUDI STRIKES SEVEN IN NEW ZEALAND WIN

Wednesday, 11 June 08, 08:45 PM

New Zealand cruised to a 13-1 win over Tuvalu in the final game of Match Day Four at the OFC Futsal Championships in Suva.

Kiwi captain Bakr Al Saudi went on a scoring rampage opening his tournament account in the second minute and closing it ï¿½ seven goals later ï¿½ in the 40th minute.

New Zealandï¿½s shot at winning the championship has slipped after losses to the Solomon Islands and Tahiti but Coach Erkin Osman was delighted that his team finally had something to smile about

ï¿½We talked about finishing this tournament off properly and I plan to do so. We want to go back home with our heads held high.ï¿½

Photos by Marc Peretic Wilson

NZL: 4. Marvin EAKINS; 8. Joshua MARTIN; 10. Ouadhah RAGUED; 14. Bakr Al SAUDI; 20. Clayton CHAPPELL (GK),

SUBS: 1. Elias BILLEH (RGK); 5. Yukin NAIDOO; 3. Andrew GWILLIAM; 19. Michael CORRINGHAM; 12. Luke FIELD; 17. Victor ZAIA; 23. Gregory Oï¿½CONNOR

Coach: Erkin Osman (AUS)

Goals: 14. Bakr Al SAUDI 2ï¿½,5ï¿½, 15ï¿½, 16ï¿½; 32ï¿½; 40ï¿½; 10. Ouadhah RAGUED 15ï¿½; 4. Marvin EAKINS 21ï¿½; 23. Gregory Oï¿½CONNOR 23ï¿½; 3. Andrew GWILLIAM 37ï¿½;

TUV: 1. Sopepe TAILOLO (GK); 6. Paitela KELEMENE; 8. Peniuna KAITU; 11. Imo FIAMALUA; 21. Maio ETIMANI;

SUBS: 2. Felo FEOTO; 3. Tioti Maati TOAFA; 5.Mau PENISULA; 9. Starchel SOLOSENI; 17. Neemia ONOSEMU; 19. Mahanga TEIAPUTI; 10. Semalie FOTU

Coach: Sami NEEMIA (TUV)

Referee: Allan ALICK (VAN)

2nd Referee: Rajnish DAVE (FIJ)

3rd Referee: Amitesh BEHARI (FIJ)

Timekeeper: Peter L. PAKOATONG (VAN)

Refereeï¿½s Assessor: Massimo RAVEINO (TAH)

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

I knew that the YF futsal team should have gone

All I do is make the stuff I would've liked
Reference things I wanna watch, reference girls I wanna bite
Now I'm firefly like a burning kite
And yousa fake fuck like a fleshlight

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

The photo of the Tuvalu keeper is priceless. Looks like it was a case of shooting fish in a barrel!

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

The latest from Day 5 saw the FutsAllwhites having a rest day but the action continued on the court(see below)

Tomorrow (Friday 13th!) sees the Kiwis back in action against New Caledonia for a middle table spot, Fiji vs whipping boys, Tuvalu but the most interesting clash shall be the Solomons vs Tahiti. Current leaders, Vanuatu have a bye.

It is now just a three-horse race for the one spot in Brasil, with Tahiti facing Vanuatu on the last day, the Solomons will be looking to beat the 13 the FutsAllwhites knocked past Tuvalu in their encounter. New Caledonia have a bye whilt the Kiwis final game is against hosts Fiji.

Goal difference could prove crucial in finally deciding the Oceania Champion.

VANUATU GO TOP WITH IMPRESSIVE WIN

Thursday, 12 June 08, 08:47 PM

Vanuatu beat the Solomon Islands 5-1 in an exhilarating final game of Match Day Five in the OFC Futsal Championship at the Vodafone Arena in Suva tonight.

The Championship has now become a three horse race with Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Tahiti all capable of claiming a spot at the FIFA Futsal World cup in Brazil.

Vanuatu sit on top of the table with 12 points, with Tahiti second on 10 and Solomon Islands third on nine.

The largest crowd of the championship turned up to see an exciting end to end dual of two technically proficient teams who were out to attack.

Vanuatu drew first blood in the 16th minute when Louis Dominique broke down the right and fired a hard right footed shot in off a defender.

After halftime both teams came out firing and a series of missed chances for both teams had the 1500 strong crowd screaming in the aisles.

Vanuatu made it 2-0 in the 24th minute when Fedy Vava poked home from close range after a swift counter attack.

The loudest cheer of the night came when James Egeta pulled one back for the Solomon Islands three minutes later and the Solo fans tried to push their side towards an equalizer.

But the joy was short lived as tournament top scorer Jack Vira Ala restored the two goal lead before two goals in two minutes from Dominique and Terry Quare killed the game off.

Vanuatu coach Marcellino Barthelemy said that finally everything went right for his side.

ï¿½I am very very proud of our performance tonight. This was the business end and we did the business. But now we must look to tomorrow and an important game against Tahiti.ï¿½

Solomon Island coach Victor Waiï¿½ia said his side did not stick to the game plan, though noted that they are by no means out of contention for the championship.

ï¿½Goal difference now becomes very important. For us, mentally we werenï¿½t where we needed to be.ï¿½

The two teams embraced each other in a joint celebration at the end of the match to celebrate their friendship.ï¿½

ï¿½The Melanesian brothers got together to celebrate Futsal and each otherï¿½s progress in the sport,ï¿½ said Waiï¿½ia. ï¿½There is a real friendship between us and I appreciate Vanuatu are a good side.ï¿½

OFC FUTSAL CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS

PL W D L GF GA GD PTS VAN 5 4 0 1 28 6 +22 12 TAH 4 3 1 0 17 7 +10 10 SOL 4 3 0 1 25 17 +8 9 NZL 4 2 0 2 18 10 +8 6 NCL 5 1 1 3 20 27 -7 4 FIJ 4 1 0 3 14 27 -13 3 TUV 4 0 0 4 4 32 -28 0

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Bit embarrassing that we can't even get comfortably into the top half of the table.

NZF money poorly spent imho. A nice jolly for the players but who really gives a sh*t?

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

I really appreciate all the feedback futsal is getting on Yellow Fever but feel I must state a few facts in relation to the last comments from Smithy.

Totally agree that it is slightly embarassing that the FutsAllwhites may only finish mid-table considering some people put them as pre-tournament favourites. But why??????? because they finished runners-up in 2004?, still maintained 4 "experienced" players from 2004?

From 2004 nothing has changed for futsal in this country. Well, nothing really significant ( we now hve a Open Mens National Tournament). It is just history repeating itself. I spoke at the first futsal seminar back in 2006 with NZF saying we need to start preparing for the World Cup qualifiers NOW. Former deputy CEO, Mike Kernagham chaired the meeting and did nothing. He has since gone to become CEO of Netball NZ! FIFA has set a mandated that all members are to "provide" for both futsal and beach soocer. FIFA gives them the money to develop the game in the country. Has NZF stuck to this mandate? Ask Bill MacGowan and Graham Seatter where is the money! And will the present regime will follow suit? Qualification for the World Cup may have changed that. That is why it is disappointing.

To say "NZF money poorly spent into?" I nearly fell off my chair! They have contributed financially a BIG NOTHING! They as members of Oceania/FIFA basically rubber-stamp the paper-work to say Futsal NZ will enter a team. After that you are on your own. We will provide you with a playing strip but that is it. How you get there etc etc is your problem. The guys, just like in any other minority sport in this country, have payed the lot. You pay if you want to represent your country. East City Futsal and Southern Trust helped with some funds. Otherwise the players paid their way which also inclided trips to Auckland/Wellington for traing camps/sessions. It has been a costly exercise for those guys.

So as for " a nice jolly" well I do not think it is all sea, sun and sand. These guys have worked extremely hard, sacrificed so many things on the way ie a honeymoon for one. Yeah I can hear the jokes already, " he should have taken her to Fiji as well". This was run on a professional basis. It was not a holiday with the WAGS. The FutsAllwhites wanted so badly to qualify for Brasil. It would have gone along way in the relationship with NZF and promoted the game which it badly needs. And as you say "but who really give a sh*t!". That is the attitude of many. Qualification for Brasil would have made a few people sit up and listen.

OFC have done a fantastic job compared to 2004 in Canberra with their promoting of futsal in the region. At least they as a confederation are serious about the FIFA mandate which is more than you can say for our national body. I hope this mentality changes soon as there are some hard working people behind the scenes ie Gaye who as you previously mentioned she "has been a tireless crusader for Futsal in NZ over the years". Will she stay on after this disappointing campaign remauins to be seen.

I could go on and mention their pre-tournament trip to Sydney for warm-up games, again paid for by the players, the change of coach half-way through their preparation was not a smart move but one that needed to be made at the time so things have not gone too smoothly.

Good luck to the guys in their last two games. Come home with your heads held high. You did your best which sadly was not good enough. As George Gregan said, "another 4 years" but can futsal wait that long for history to repeat itself all over again, that is the question?

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

CCFWGTN wrote:

Otherwise the players paid their way which also inclided trips to Auckland/Wellington for traing camps/sessions. It has been a costly exercise for those guys.

I withdraw my 'nice jolly' comment then.

Fair play to them if they've paid for it themselves. But that's the way it should be.

NZF resources should be concentrated on the outdoor game and not every random variant of it that FIFA fancy promoting as a gimmick.

The OFC Futsal champs are in the same league, for me, as the NZ Secondary Schools trip, or an international beach soccer tournament, or Feverish's trip to the Euros. Great trip, interesting experience, but of little value to the game in New Zealand overall.

If Futsal evolves into a credible worldwide game (played outside of south america) then maybe things will change but you've got to get the cart behind the horse.

That's not to criticise anyone who is involved in organising it. As I've said, the ones I know are good people.

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Smithy wrote:

Bit embarrassing that we can't even get comfortably into the top half of the table.

NZF money poorly spent imho. A nice jolly for the players but who really gives a sh*t?

Editing due to reply from Smithy which got in b4 me, and thank you for the withdraw on the jolly comment, but equally, futsal is fully professional through Europe, the best league in the world is the Spanish league, and the current world champions are Spain, runners up Italy....

I have been involved with the extended squad for the futsal and I think you're being pretty unfair Smithy.

Yes it might be a bit embarrassing to not be in the top half at the moment, the loss to Tahiti was certainly unfortunate. However the Solomon Islands recently competed strongly in the Australian national tournament, one of their players being named player of the tournament....they are a strong team. I also believe some of the youth teams have had trouble beating their island counterparts recently as well?

Yes, I agree the money was not well spent by NZF, mainly because, as CCF says, the New Zealand futsal team didn't see it. The Solomons are a good example of using it so send their team to play other good sides in preparation.

And just a good jolly for the players but who gives a.....? These players had to fork out a lot of money to represent their country at close to the highest level of the game in what is a FIFA endorsed event. OK so they arent going to make the World Cup, but to be fair, NZ isn't exactly a world power in any forms of football, but that doesn't mean we should stop supporting them.

Maybe I'm biased in this, but I just wish them all the best in their final two matches and hope that all forms of football get support in this country.
wulfsteam2008-06-13 09:43:40

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

From Wikipedia

Since 1989 : FIFA Futsal World Cups

Main article: FIFA Futsal World Cup

1989 (in Rotterdam, Netherlands). Winner: Brazil. Runner-Up: Netherlands. 3rd: USA. 4th: Belgium.
1992 (in Hong Kong). Winner: Brazil. Runner-Up: USA. 3rd: Spain. 4th: Iran.
1996 (in Barcelona, Spain). Winner: Brazil. Runner-Up: Spain. 3rd: Russia. 4th: Ukraine.
2000 (in Guatemala City, Guatemala). Winner: Spain. Runner-Up: Brazil. 3rd: Portugal. 4th: Russia.
2004 (in Taiwan). Winner: Spain. Runner-Up: Italy. 3rd: Brazil. 4th: Colombia.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

I think we shall agree to disagree on your comment, "NZF resources should be concentrated on the outdoor game and not every random variant of it that FIFA fancy promoting as a gimmick". By this you obviously include futsal in that? Do you feel futsal does not improve the technique and skills required for outdoor? Futsal has a huge value for the players. I could list a whole host of stars who played futsal before football but will not right now.

Futsal is not just played in Sth America. Please check the other confederations especially UEFA and get back to me. It is a professional game in many countries

Your thoughts are just like NZF and I would say the greater NZ football public and in my opinion this is why football in this country will never get anywhere. 82 was a miracle. Never to be repeated because of the style of football played in this country ( kick'n'run)and the basic lack of skill and technique which futsal provides. We want first class footballers not athletes.

Simon Clifford in the UK is up against the very same with the English FA and their development of English players although they are now coming around to his way of thinking. Better late than never.

It a great debate.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Futsal is great for developing skill and technique. No doubt. So is 5v5 football on grass but you don't see there being a 5 a side World Cup? Or do you? What about an Indoor Soccer world cup? Should we fund that too? Beach soccer?

Where does it stop?

Football is a game played with 11 players on grass. End of.

I bet you could reel off loads of players who played futsal and were also good outdoor players. But that would prove nothing. Most of the good players everywhere play some form of indoor football. I saw Dave Batty yesterday playing indoor soccer in shed 1. Does that mean indoor soccer made Dave the player he is? Does it f**k.

Your contention that if we adopt futsal it will take us to the world cup is laughable.

Your ludicrously out of date "NZ plays kick and run football because we don't play futsal" tangent is also quite mental. I don't think you can level the 'long ball team' accusation at any recent All Whites side, or the Phoenix.

Futsal's a great game. But it's not football. So New Zealand FOOTBALL shouldn't be paying for it.

Smithy2008-06-13 10:08:06

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

Smithy wrote:

Where does it stop?

[/QUOTE]

There are 3 FIFA sanctioned versions, Outdoor, futsal, and yes, beach soccer, that seems to provide a pretty good cut off point.

[QUOTE=Smithy]

Futsal's a great game. But it's not football. So New Zealand FOOTBALL shouldn't be paying for it.

I guess this arguement means that FIFA (Fï¿½dï¿½ration Internationale de Football Association (International Federation of FOOTBALL Association) should have nothing to do with futsal either?

Equally, if FIFA specifically gives money to NZF for futsal (as they did all oceania nations) then, to me, that suggests that NZF should support the national futsal team

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

wulfsteam wrote:

I guess this arguement means that FIFA (Fï¿½dï¿½ration Internationale de Football Association (International Federation of FOOTBALL Association) should have nothing to do with futsal either?

[/quote]

I subscribe to that theory up to a point, yes.

[quote=wulfsteam]

Equally, if FIFA specifically gives money to NZF for futsal (as they did all oceania nations) then, to me, that suggests that NZF should support the national futsal team

If the money was given very specifically for Futsal then sure, whatever is left when you take Futsal's share of any administrative expenses should flow down to Futsal at grass roots.

Do Futsal players pay NZF affilliation fees like the rest of us do? Or are you just after a free trip?

Smithy2008-06-13 10:21:57

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

I really love this debate but like I said before let's agree to disagree. You have your thougths/opinions and I have mine and that is what is great about this forum and the round-ball game.

There is a style of football I like and a style you like and we can go on for ever disputing which is best and the ways and methods to improve the quality of the players.

You are 100% correct "Futsal's a great game. But it's not football". They are two different sports which cross-over and compliment each other.

But as for, "So New Zealand FOOTBALL shouldn't be paying for it". Well that is the FIFA mandate.That is what they are giving them the money for to develop all the "gimmicky" games that FIFA aks of them. Who is the boss here?

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

As I've said. Fair enough if it's money that's clearly earmarked for Futsal.

As long as futsal players are paying their affiliation fees to NZF like everyone else.

I love futsal. I enjoy playing it, albeit very very poorly. I'd be f*cked off though if 'the game' was subsidising our international futsal team ahead of (for example) the National U20s (who have no budget either).

Apart from that I think we're actually in general agreement.

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

CCFWGTN wrote:

There is a style of football I like and a style you like and we can go on for ever disputing which is best and the ways and methods to improve the quality of the players.

If that sniffy comment was meant to mean that anyone who doesn't think that futsal is God's gift must be a long ball merchant then you need to have the balls to actually say that.

New Zealand international teams are not, and have not been since maybe Confeds Cup 97, long ball teams (with the odd notable exception I'll grant you).

Modern coaches like Ricki, Stu, Mick, and others are intelligent enough to have moved on from that dated philosophy without the aid of futsal.

Incredible stamina. No shame. Yellow Fever.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

If that sniffy comment was meant to mean that anyone who doesn't think that futsal is God's gift must be a long ball merchant then you need to have the balls to actually say that.

No you are correct, it was not meant to mean that at all. I do not know what style of football you like.

Modern coaches like Ricki, Stu, Mick, and others are intelligent enough to have moved on from that dated philosophy without the aid of futsal.

Well I shall just have to take your word for that.

Apart from that I think we're actually in general agreement.

Agreed I think we are.

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

NEW ZEALAND SURVIVE LATE SCARE TO COLLECT WIN

Friday, 13 June 08, 08:49 PM

New Zealand survived a late scare from New Caledonia before completing a 3-2 win in the final game of match day five at the OFC Futsal Championships in Suva this evening.

Both sides were determined to finish the tournament on a positive note after making tough work of the earlier rounds.

For New Caledonia it brought an end to their first international Futsal tournament and they went close to snatching a point after trailing by two goals with five minutes to go.

New Caledonia opened the scoring in the eight minute thanks to an own goal by New Zealand defender Marvin Eakins.

They were level again one minute later when Joshua Martin poked home from close range after a tidy New Zealand build up.

New Zealand took the lead in the 17th minute when Victor Zaia provided reward for a dominating spell of possession.

Bakr Al Saudi scored his ninth goal of the tournament with five minutes to go and it seemed New Zealand had the match sown up.

But New Caledonia responded one minute later with a sweeping counter attack and a Edouard Muracciolii goal created a nervous final five minutes for New Zealand Coach Erkin Osman.

ï¿½The game didnï¿½t need to be a heart attack but it was in the end,ï¿½ said Osman. ï¿½We got into a comfortable two goal lead and then nearly threw it away again with some bad decisions in important areas.ï¿½

ï¿½But in the end the boys dug deep. We knew this game was important and the next one too because we want to finish the tournament on a positive note.ï¿½

ï¿½Every player was strong out there for us today and I was proud of our performance.ï¿½

New Caledonia Coach Eric Michalak said it was always going to be difficult to get up for the last game of the tournament.

ï¿½Today my guys were to slow and they only came alive in the last ten minutes. It was our first time at an international tournament and it was very good for learning and experience and developing New Caledonian Futsal.ï¿½

Photos by Marc Peretic Wilson

NCL: 1. Ronan EUZEN (GK); 3. Alexandre ROSSO; 4. Albert HNAILOLO; 5. Jerry IARUEL; 7. Edouard MURACCIOLII;

SUBS: 2. Jean Phillipe WEMAMA; 6. Benoit MOGLIA; 8. Yvan POUROUORO; 9. Yoan GARIN; 10. Marcias GINO RENE; 11. Stevens GUILLEMIN; 16. Ronald GAYON (RGK);

Goals: Own Goal 4. Marvin Eakins (NZL); 7. Edouard MURACCIOLII 36ï¿½;

Coach: Michalak ERIC (NCL)

NZL: 1. Elias BILLEH (GK); 4. Marvin EAKINS; 8. Joshua MARTIN; 10. Ouadhah RAGUED; 14. Bakr Al SAUDI;

SUBS: 20. Clayton CHAPPELL (RGK); 5. Yukin NAIDOO; 3. Andrew GWILLIAM; 19. Michael CORRINGHAM; 12. Luke FIELD; 17. Victor ZAIA; 23. Gregory Oï¿½CONNOR;

Goals: 8. Joshua MARTIN 9ï¿½, 17. Victor ZAIA 27ï¿½; 14. Bakr Al SAUDI 35ï¿½;

Coach: Erkin Osman (AUS)

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almost 18 years ago · edited over 13 years ago

All over in Fiji and the Solomon Islands are the OFC Champions and will represent Oceania at the World Cup. Congratulations to the Solomons, deserving winners. The FutAllwhites finished a disappointing 4th.

I would like to thank all those who have contributed to this topic and to those who followed the competition with interest. A big thank you to Yellow Fever for making all this possible and to Capital Football (Keith Palmer and Steve) for regular updates on their website.

SOLOMON ISLANDS HEADING TO BRAZIL FOR FUTSAL WORLD CUP

Saturday, 14 June 08, 08:09 PM

The Solomon Islands will represent the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) at the FIFA Futsal World Cup in Brazil in September after winning the OFC/Vodafone Futsal Championship in Suva tonight.

The Solomonï¿½s only needed three points from their final game against Tuvalu after Tahiti defeated Vanuatu 2-1 in the opening game of the day.

They finished it off in style with a 12-0 win and earned a birth at their first ever FIFA Futsal World Cup.

Micah Leaï¿½alafa led the way with four goals while Elliot Ragomo, Jack Wetney and Francis Lafai scored two apiece. James Egeta and Alfred Punguika completed the rout with late goals.

Tahiti leapfrogged Vanuatu into second place and the silver medal with another inspirational performance, coming from behind to snatch the win in the last minute.

The wild celebrations of the Tahitians were in sharp contrast to the tears of the Vanuatu side who narrowly missed out on their world cup dream.

Fedy Vava opened the scoring in the 5th minute for Vanuatu before Michael Mahuri equalised just before halftime. Matana Bea snuck the winner in the final minute of the match and sent the Tahitian party into a celebrating frenzy.

Fiji collected their third win in the final match of the tournament with a 4-1 victory over New Zealand.

Fiji opened the scoring in the 31st minute when the tournaments golden boot ï¿½ Kamal Hassan potted his 14th goal of the tournament.

New Zealand equalized in the 37th minute when Joshua Martin found the net before Assis Chand grabbed two goals in the space of a minute to turn the game back in Fijiï¿½s favour. Muni Arvindra Naidu killed the game off with a goal in the last minute.

Les ï¿½les Salomon reprï¿½senteront la Confï¿½dï¿½ration Ocï¿½anienne de Football d'Ocï¿½anie (OFC) ï¿½ la Coupe du monde FIFA de Futsal au Brï¿½sil en septembre prochain, aprï¿½s avoir gagnï¿½ ce soir le championnat de lï¿½OFC au Vodafone Arena de Suva ï¿½ Fidji.

Seules trois points ï¿½taient nï¿½cessaires aux Salomon pour ce dernier match contre Tuvalu, aprï¿½s que Tahiti ont battu le Vanuatu 2-1 dans le match d'ouverture.

Ils ont en fait assurï¿½ le spectacle avec une victoire 12-0 et ont gagnï¿½ leur baptï¿½me dans une Coupe du monde FIFA de Futsal.

Micah Lea'alafa a assurï¿½ le score avec quatre buts tandis qu'Elliot Ragomo, Jack Wetney et Francis Lafai marquait deux fois chacun. James Egeta et Alfred Punguika a complï¿½tï¿½ le score avec un but ï¿½galement.

Tahiti a franchi lï¿½obstacle du Vanuatu pour la seconde place et conquit la mï¿½daille d'argent avec une nouvelle performance, conclut par un but ï¿½ la derniï¿½re minute.

Le Haka sauvage des Tahitiens contrastait avec les larmes du cï¿½tï¿½ de Vanuatu qui venaient de perdre leur rï¿½ve de Coupe du Monde..

Fedy Vava a ouvert la marque ï¿½ la cinquiï¿½me minute pour le Vanuatu avant que Michael Mahuri ï¿½galise juste avant la mi-temps. Matana Bea arracha la victoire ï¿½ la derniï¿½re minute, avant une cï¿½lï¿½bration de folie de tout le camp tahitien.

Fidji a assurï¿½e sa troisiï¿½me victoire dans le dernier match du tournoi avec une victoire 4-1 sur la Nouvelle Zï¿½lande.

Fidji a ouvert la marque ï¿½ la 31iï¿½me minute par le meilleur scoreur du tournoi Kamal Hassan, qui inscrit lï¿½ son quatorziï¿½me but.

La Nouvelle Zï¿½lande ï¿½galisa ï¿½ la 37iï¿½me minute par Joshua Martin, juste avant que Assis Chand marque deux buts en lï¿½espace dï¿½une minute pour dï¿½finitivement donner la victoire ï¿½ Fidji. Muni Arvindra Naidu clï¿½tura le score avec un but lointain ï¿½ la derniï¿½re minute.

OFC FUTSAL CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL STANDINGS

PL W D L GF GA GD PTS SOL 6 5 0 1 41 19 +22 15 TAH 6 4 1 1 21 12 +9 13 VAN 6 4 0 2 29 8 +21 12 NZL 6 3 0 3 22 16 +6 9 FIJ 6 3 0 3 31 31 0 9 NCL 6 1 1 4 22 30 -8 4 TUV 6 0 0 6 7 57 -50 0

Championship Golden Boot

No Name Team Goals

9 Kamal HASSAN FIJ 14

9 Micah Leaï¿½alafa SOL 12

10 Jack Vira Ala VAN 9

14 Bakr Al Saudi NZL 9

3 Elliot Ragomo SOL 8

OFC FUTSAL CHAMPIONSHIP FIJI 2008

VANUATU vs TAHITI

VODAFONE ARENA

SUVA

FIJI

SATURDAY 14 JUNE

TAH: 1. Rehia DAVIO (gk); 3. Jimmy RIARIA; 4. Romeo PATIRA; 6. Michel MAIHURI; 10. Usiera PUKOKI.

SUBS: 2. Matana BEA; 5. Lysis TAUHA; 7. Steeven TINO; 8. Tetuanui TINOMOE; 9. Iorama BEA; 11. Amau TETUANUI; 12. Fernand TUANUA (rgk)

COACH: Rani BEA (TAH)

VAN: 1. Chikau MANSALE (gk); 3. Ben EDWARD; 5. Fedy VAVA; 6. Derek MALAS; 10. Jack Vira ALA.

SUBS: 2. Terry QUARE; 4. Lui SIFAS; 7. Ben HUNGAI; 8. Louis DOMINQUE; 9. Siardon Mera TALKANAMAL; 11. Saen Wowut FANAI; 22. Daniel MANSALE (rgk).

REFEREE: Scott KIDSON (AUS)

2nd REFEREE: Rajnish DAVE (FIJ)

3rd REFEREE: Amitesh BEHARI (FIJ)

OFC FUTSAL CHAMPIONSHIP FIJI 2008

SOLOMON ISLANDS vs TUVALU

VODAFONE ARENA

SUVA

FIJI

SATURDAY 14 JUNE

SOL: 1. Alick LIOKA; 3. Elliot RAGOMO; 7. James EGETA; 9. Micah LEA'ALAFA; 12. Jack WETNEY.

SUBS: 2. Philip HOUTARAU; 4. Alfred PUNGUIKA; 5. Jenan KAPU; 6. Moffat SIKWA'AE; 8. Francis LAFAI; 11. Ron GINIO; 13. Stanley PUAIRANA (rgk)

COACH: Victor WAI'IA

TUV: 22. Starchel SOLOSENI; 2. Felo FEOTO; 5. Mau PENINSULA; 8. Peniuna KAITU; 11. Imo FIAMALUA.

SUBS: 3. Tioti Maati TOAFA; 6. Paitela KELEMENE; 17. Neemia ONOSEMU; 19. Mahaga TEIAPUTI; 21. Maio ETIMANI.

COACH: Sami NEEMIA (TUV)

REFEREE: Francois TROLLIARD (NCL)

2nd REFEREE: Chris COLLEY (AUS)

3rd REFEREE: Allan ALICK (VAN)

OFC FUTSAL CHAMPIONSHIP FIJI 2008

FIJI v NEW ZEALAND

VODAFONE ARENA

SUVA

FIJI

SATURDAY 14 JUNE

FIJ: 2. Mira SAHIB; 3. Sandeep Sanjesh NAIR; 6. Assis CHAND; 9. Kamal HASSAN;12. Nishad Wasim ALI (GK);

SUBS: 1. Azmat BEGG (RGK); 8. Muni Arvindra NAIDU; 10. Dinesh Chand MUDALIAR; 11. Imtiaz BEGG;

COACH: Imtiaz KHAN (FIJ)

ABSENT: 4. Alvin AVINESH; 5. Nayzal Siga Ali; 7. Vikash PRASAD;

NZL: 3. Andrew GWILLIAM; 4. Marvin EAKINS; 8. Joshua MARTIN; 19. Michael CORRINGHAM; 20. Clayton CHAPPELL (GK);

SUBS: 1. Elias BILLEH (GK); 5. Yukin NAIDOO; 12. Luke FIELD; 17. Victor ZAIA; 23. Gregory Oï¿½CONNOR; 10. Ouadhah RAGUED; 14. Bakr Al SAUDI;

GOALS: 8. Joshua MARTIN 9ï¿½, 17. Victor ZAIA 27ï¿½; 14. Bakr Al SAUDI 35ï¿½;

COACH: Erkin Osman (AUS)

REFEREE: Teihotu TAEREA (TAH)

2nd REFEREE: Peter L. PAKOATONG (VAN)

3rd REFEREE: Stephan PARAGE (NCL)

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