The 2020 PVFA Independence Cup kicked-off this weekend and Galaxy and Tafea won their matches. Besides the final scores, standings and goalscorers, there is one thing that must be highlighted: the amount of players that are not really part of the official squads.
Erakor Golden Star counted on Jason Thomas, Dondy Kileteir and Tasso Jeffery in their opening match against Ifira Black Bird. Kileteir and Jeffery are training with the team but they belong to Malampa Revivors while Jason Thomas is currently attached to Lautoka FC from Fiji. According to reliable sources, Thomas will not return to Lautoka but his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) is still with the Fijian club.
Two other clubs also counted on players that are currently attached to Fijian clubs: Tupuji Imere and Tafea. Tupuji counted on Lautoka’s forward Alex Saniel while Tafea counted on Ba’s midfielder Micah Tommy. Unlike Jason Thomas, Saniel and Tommy must return to Fiji soon to rejoin their respective clubs.
Having these players help to increase the level of the tournament as the PVFA Independence Cup is a festive championship. While many countries still have their borders closed, it is very good to see football back in Vanuatu as players are recovering their fitness for 2019-20 Port Vila Premier League resumption.
Oceania Football Center 