Yes timeliness is needed to be a pro footballer!
SIU to benefit from only having played once this week so far, compared to Vanuatu twice.
Bula verus Auckland could be a goodie - if these matches actually happen.
Games to be played on Friday January 23, 2026
SIU to benefit from only having played once this week so far, compared to Vanuatu twice.
Bula verus Auckland could be a goodie - if these matches actually happen.
Games to be played on Friday January 23, 2026
South Island United v Vanuatu United
North Harbour Stadium, Albany, Auckland, New Zealand, 3pm
North Harbour Stadium, Albany, Auckland, New Zealand, 3pm
Auckland FC v Bula
North Harbour Stadium, Albany, Auckland, New Zealand, 7pm
North Harbour Stadium, Albany, Auckland, New Zealand, 7pm
https://www.friendsoffootballnz.com/2026/01/22/good-friends-turn-rivals-for-south-island-uniteds-next-ofc-pro-league-clash/
‘Good friends’ turn rivals for South Island United’s next OFC Pro League clash
‘Good friends’ turn rivals for South Island United’s next OFC Pro League clash
Vanuatu United’s match against South Island United in the OFC Pro League will be a special occasion for Vanuatu winger Jordy Tasip, who will be lining up against many familiar faces on Friday.
Tasip spent the past season with Christchurch United in the New Zealand National League and will face several former teammates on the South Island United team.
“They’re good friends to me, so tomorrow is a special game for me,” says Tasip, who will bump into Christchurch United players Steven van Dijk, Ollie van Rijssel, Riley Grover, Charlie Beale and injured Josh Rogerson.
Tasip and fellow Vanuatu international Walter Leoru had a tough introduction to the South Island, arriving in the dead of winter.
“Yes, it was really cold for us, like minus zero. During that time we were also training early in the morning, so it’s a big challenge for me,” laughs Tasip, who quickly became a popular figure in the Christchurch squad.
“He’s a legend, isn’t he. I think he enjoyed his time with us, apart from the cold weather, maybe,” says South Island United vice-captain Van Rijssel.
“He’s a worker, and he’ll just get stuck in,” says the left fullback, who is glad Tasip will most likely play opposite Riley Grover on the other wing.
“But if he drifts over, I’ll be glad I have my shin pads on.”
Tasip is enjoying his time in the OFC Pro League and says that coach Ryan Edwards and teammates in Christchurch helped him to become a more professional player.
“I picked a lot of things from the coaches and the players. To reach a level like this, you have to commit yourself and be on time.”
Meanwhile, Vanuatu United head coach Lars Hopp said he is likely to rotate his squad, with the team playing their third match in six days.