“Tasso is on fire”: Vanuatu’s Tasso Jeffrey scores a brace and earns ‘Man of the Match’ award in Australia

In a thrilling match between Gawler Eagles FC and The Cove in South Australia’s State League 2, Vanuatu international Tasso Jeffrey showcased his skills and determination by scoring a brace to secure a crucial victory for his team. Despite recently facing visa issues that resulted in him losing his international duties for the national team in the Intercontinental Cup, Jeffrey continued to excel in Australia alongside his compatriot Lency Philip.

The match ended with a resounding 5-2 win in favor of Gawler Eagles FC, providing them with renewed hope and confidence to battle for promotion in South Australia’s highly competitive league. It was a remarkable team performance, with Jeffrey’s contribution proving pivotal in securing the victory.

As the game progressed, both teams displayed their attacking prowess and created numerous goal-scoring opportunities. However, it was Jeffrey’s ability to seize crucial moments that made all the difference. With the match hanging in the balance, he rose to the occasion and scored two late goals that not only confirmed the win for his side but also highlighted his exceptional talent and composure under pressure. The brace not only secured the victory for Gawlear Eagles but also earned Jeffrey the well-deserved title of the man of the match, acknowledging his outstanding performance throughout the game.

Tasso Jeffrey – Preemium 5 Photography

This triumph is a testament to Jeffrey’s resilience and determination to make an impact on the football field despite the recent setback with his national team. By continuing to perform at a high level in Australia, he has proven his worth and showcased his potential as a rising talent from Vanuatu.

Furthermore, Jeffrey’s partnership with fellow countryman Lency Philip has been crucial in Gawlear Eagles FC’s success. Their understanding and chemistry on the field have created opportunities for each other, contributing significantly to the team’s attacking prowess. With this impressive victory and Jeffrey’s standout performance, Eagles now find themselves in a stronger position to compete for promotion in South Australia’s State League 2. The win not only boosts the team’s morale but also provides them with the belief and motivation to push for success in the remainder of the season.

Jeffrey was celebrated in the dressing rooms after the game with his teammates with chants: “Tasso is on fire, your defence is terrified!” As the former Galaxy FC player continues to shine on the field, he remains an exciting talent to watch, not only for Gawlear Eagles but also for the football community in Vanuatu and beyond. His dedication, skill, and ability to deliver in crucial moments make him a valuable asset for his club and a source of inspiration for aspiring footballers back in his country.

Micah Lea’alafa nets his fifth goal of the season in Australia

In a recent NPL South Australia match played this Saturday (1st July) between FK Beograd and South Adelaide Panthers, Solomon Islands football star Micah Lea’alafa showcased his skills and scoring prowess despite his team’s defeat. Lea’alafa managed to find the back of the net in the 50th minute, giving FK Beograd an early lead in the game. You can watch the goal by clicking here.

The goal marked Lea’alafa’s fifth of the season. The talented forward has been enjoying a successful individual debut season in Beograd, making a significant impact on the pitch. Known for his speed, technical ability, and goal-scoring instinct, Lea’alafa has proven to be a valuable addition to the Beograd squad.

Lea’alafa in action for FK Beograd – Active Illustrated

Although Lea’alafa’s goal initially provided hope for FK Beograd, the team faced a setback as they conceded three goals later in the match. Despite his efforts, the match ended in a 3-1 defeat for Beograd, leaving them in a challenging position in the league. Currently sitting in 8th place in the ladder, Beograd is enduring a difficult phase, struggling to secure positive results.

Lea’alafa’s contributions on the field, however, cannot be undermined. As a key player for the Solomon Islands national team, he recently announced his retirement from international duty. This decision allowed him to focus on his club career and contribute fully to FK Beograd’s success. His commitment and dedication to the game have been evident, as he continues to deliver noteworthy performances despite his team’s overall struggles.

Solomon Islands’ Liomasia set to join Fijian powerhouse Ba

In recent transfer news, Solomon Islands international midfielder Carlos Liomasia is rumored to be on the verge of joining Fijian powerhouse Ba. The Men in Black have expressed a strong interest in acquiring Liomasia, recognizing the need to bolster their attacking options.

Liomasia has already showcased his capabilities in Fijian football during his time with Tailevu Naitasiri, where he emerged as a key player for the team. His performances demonstrated his excellent passing ability and creativity, making him a valuable asset on the pitch.

Liomasia (center) – Fiji Sun

Ba, the most successful club in Fiji, is determined to enhance their squad in order to mount a serious challenge for the Digicel Fiji Premier League title once again. They see the addition of Liomasia as a significant improvement to their already impressive passing and creativity in the midfield.

The player’s representatives and Ba’s management are expected to meet in the coming week to discuss and finalize the details of the potential move. If successful, Liomasia will be officially announced as Ba’s new player, marking an exciting new chapter in his football career and a great addition to the Men in Black.

Raphael Lea’i scores twice in first preseason match for Velež Mostar

In an exhilarating preseason friendly match, FK Velež Mostar showcased their dominance with an impressive 8-0 victory over HNK Sloga Gornji. The game served as a promising start to the team’s preparations for the upcoming 2023/24 season, and it was marked by the stellar performance of Solomon Islands’ international, Raphael Lea’i.

Having recently represented his national team in Asia, Lea’i returned to Bosnia and Herzegovina with renewed vigor and wasted no time in making his mark during the preseason. The 19-year-old forward displayed his immense talent by scoring a brace, highlighting his potential to become an even more valuable asset to Velež Mostar in the upcoming season.

Raphael Lea’i’s debut season as a professional player for Velež Mostar had already garnered attention, and his strong showing in this preseason match only reinforced the belief that he possesses the qualities to excel at the highest level. With his electrifying pace, technical prowess, and clinical finishing ability, Lea’i demonstrated his ability to contribute significantly to his team’s success.

The match against HNK Sloga Gornji saw Lea’i combine his individual brilliance with the collective strength of the Velež Mostar squad. The team displayed an attacking mindset from the opening whistle, and their relentless pressure quickly overwhelmed their third-tier opponents.

Raphael Lea’i in action for Solomon Islands national team – Aidir Photography

Lea’i’s goals were instrumental in setting the tone for the game – opening the scoreline for his side and also scoring the 5th goal still in the first half. With his intelligent movement and keen eye for goal, he showcased his predatory instincts in the attacking third. Each goal demonstrated his versatility as a forward, as he adeptly finished chances with both his right and left foot.

As the season approaches, the focus will now shift to harnessing the potential of the entire squad and fine-tuning their strategies and tactics. With Raphael Lea’i already proving his worth and the team’s collective strength on display, FK Velež Mostar will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season, fueled by the aspirations of achieving even greater heights.

Ifira Black Bird’s goalkeeper Andreas Duch attends professional training program in Australia

Andreas Duch, the talented goalkeeper for Ifira Black Bird, has embarked on an exciting journey in Australia as he participates in a specialized training program for goalkeepers. Led by the experienced Portuguese goalkeeper coach, Miguel Miranda, the Professional Goalkeeper Tuition offers an incredible opportunity for Duch to refine his skills and learn from one of the best in the business.

Miguel Miranda’s impressive coaching resume includes working with world-class goalkeepers such as Jan Oblak from Atletico Madrid and Ederson Moraes from Manchester City. This association instantly adds a prestigious touch to Duch’s training experience, showcasing the caliber of expertise he is fortunate to receive.

Supported by his team, Ifira Black Bird, Duch is being sponsored for this invaluable opportunity. The team recognizes his immense potential and the significance of further enhancing his goalkeeping abilities. With a superb campaign in the recent OFC Champions League tournament, where Ifira Black Bird reached the semifinals only to be eliminated by New Zealand powerhouse Auckland City in a thrilling shoot-out, Duch has already proven himself on the regional stage.

Andreas Duch in action for Ifira BB – PVFA Media

Besides the intensive training sessions, Duch is also benefiting from exposure to professional coaches and an enhanced level of visibility. This exposure can be instrumental in attracting attention from scouts and clubs, which may open doors to new opportunities in the future.

Miranda himself serves as the goalkeeper coach for the Central Coast Mariners, the reigning champions of the A-League in Australia. The connection between the Mariners and Vanuatu is strengthened through Brian Kaltak, solidifying the bond between Duch and his training environment.

As his time in Australia draws to a close, Duch is undoubtedly returning to Vanuatu armed with newfound knowledge, refined techniques, and a broader perspective on the game. The experience gained from training alongside top-quality goalkeepers and under the guidance of a renowned coach like Miguel Miranda is sure to have a lasting impact on Duch’s career.

With his dedication, talent, and the support of his team, Ifira Black Bird, Andreas Duch has all the ingredients for continued success as he takes the lessons learned in Australia back to the shores of Vanuatu. The future looks bright for this gifted goalkeeper, and fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his growth and achievements in the seasons to come.

PNG National Premier League kicks off as Lae City FC returns to schedule with eleventh hour change

The Papua New Guinea National Premier League kicked off this weekend with much anticipation and excitement in the cities of Port Moresby and Lae. However, the lead-up to the start of the league was not without its share of drama and last-minute changes.

Lae City FC, a prominent club in the country, was faced with a major setback as their long-term sponsor, Lae Biscuit, decided to withdraw their support. This move was in protest against the management of the sport by the PNG Football Association. The sudden loss of sponsorship left Lae City FC in a precarious position, jeopardizing their participation in the national league.

Fortunately, just in time, Lae City FC managed to secure a new sponsorship deal that allowed them to return to the national league. The news came as a relief to the team and their supporters, as they eagerly prepared for their upcoming matches.

Initially, the league was supposed to consist of only five teams, but due to the late developments, the eleventh hour saw the addition of three more teams, bringing the total to eight. The participating teams in the PNG National Premier League now include Hekari United, Gulf Komara, Port Moresby Strikers, Lae City FC, Lae City Dwellers, FC Morobe Wawens, United Highlands FC, and Madang FC.

As the first matchweek got underway, three matches were already played, showcasing some thrilling football action. At the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby, Hekari United, one of the league’s top contenders, faced an unexpected defeat against Port Moresby Strikers, with the latter securing a 2-1 victory.

Picture of the match between Hekari United and Port Moresby Strikers – PNGFA Media

Meanwhile, in Lae, at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium, Lae City Dwellers emerged victorious in their match against Madang FC, winning by a comfortable margin of 3-1. The fans were elated as their team showcased their skills and claimed an important early victory.

In another closely contested match, FC Morobe Wawens managed to secure a narrow 3-2 win over United Highlands FC, demonstrating the fierce competition and the determination of all the participating teams.

However, the much-anticipated match between the defending champions, Lae City FC, and Gulf Komara is yet to take place. Football enthusiasts and supporters eagerly await the debut of the national champions, hoping for an exciting clash between the two teams.

The kick off of the PNG National Premier League marked the beginning of a new season filled with promise, challenges, and the thrill of competitive football. With the current dark situation on PNG Football Association, the return to show some improvement must be in a better organised national league. The future will say the outcome of the current season will be favourable for the development of the sport in the country.

Lautoka puts eight past Nadroga in Digicel Fiji Premier League return to action

In the highly anticipated return of action in the Digicel Fiji Premier League, Lautoka delivered a stunning performance by putting eight goals past Nadroga. The match, which was scheduled to kick off at 7pm, unfortunately started an hour late due to the visitors being stuck in traffic on their way to the Sugar City. Despite the delayed start, the outcome of the game was hardly a surprise as Lautoka, the reigning Fiji FACT champions, dominated from the first whistle.

Nadroga, currently ranked 9th in the league, had a promising lineup on paper but failed to find their rhythm on the field. Lautoka quickly asserted their dominance and found themselves with a comfortable 2-0 lead before the quarter mark of the game. The Blues continued to press forward relentlessly, and by halftime, they had extended their advantage to 3-0.

Lautoka players before the match vs. Nadroga – CityNews Lautoka

The second half witnessed a relentless onslaught from Lautoka as they piled on five more goals, ultimately securing a resounding victory. Sairusi Nalaubu and Sitiveni Cavuilagi emerged as the standout performers, each scoring two goals. Epeli Leiroti, Zibraaz Sahib, Sakaraia Naisua, and an own goal also contributed to the scoreline, completing Lautoka’s comprehensive win.

With this remarkable triumph over Nadroga, Lautoka has significantly closed the gap at the top of the league table. They now sit in second place with 22 points, trailing the leaders Rewa by just one point. The result not only boosts Lautoka’s confidence but also serves as a warning to their rivals that they are serious contenders for the league title.

Kurukuru hold Australia to a draw; historic result for Solomon Islands futsal

The historic 1-1 draw between the Solomon Islands national futsal team and the Futsalroos of Australia will undoubtedly be remembered as a remarkable achievement for the visitors. The match took place in Sydney as the first friendly encounter of a series of three matches scheduled between the two teams. Despite being ranked lower in the FIFA Futsal Rankings, with Australia at 38th and Solomon Islands at 53rd, the Kurukuru showcased their talent and determination on the futsal court.

The match started with both teams displaying their skills and tactical prowess, with the crowd eagerly anticipating an exciting encounter. The Australian team, being the home side, had the advantage of playing on familiar territory, but the Kurukuru showed no signs of intimidation. Both teams had their fair share of chances, but it was Daniel Fornito of Australia who managed to break the deadlock early in the second half, firing his team ahead.

Solomons Islands national team – FFA Media

However, the Kurukuru refused to be disheartened and fought back with resilience. Their determination paid off when Charlie Otainiao found the back of the net, leveling the scoreline and ensuring that the visitors would not face defeat in their first friendly match of the series. The goal sparked jubilation among the Solomon Islands’ players and fans, as they celebrated their hard-fought equalizer.

With two more friendly matches scheduled to be played in Sydney on the 3rd and 5th of July, the Kurukuru will look to build on this positive result and continue their impressive display against Australia. The series of matches will provide valuable opportunities for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and prepare for future competitions. The Kurukuru, in particular, preparing for the OFC Futsal Nations Cup, looking to strike back to Futsal World Cup action.

The historic 1-1 draw against Australia will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for the Kurukuru, instilling confidence and belief in their abilities. It is a result that will be celebrated by the Solomon Islands’ futsal community.

OFC Women’s U-19 Championship quarterfinal stage is set

Fiji is hosting the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship, the most important youth tournament for women’s football in the South Pacific. Well-known players such as Gabi Rennie and CJ Bott (New Zealand), Kiani Wong (Tahiti), Matalena Daniells (Samoa) and Meagan Gunemba (Papua New Guinea) had already participated in this tourament, giving their first steps to impress in the local football stage.

New Zealand once again is seen as heavy favourites to win the competition and get a spot in the 2024 FIFA U-20 World Cup that will take place in Colombia. In Group B the Ferns who are the defending champions had no trouble, imposed a humiliating defeat of 11-0 against Papua New Guinea and won Fiji by 3-1. Fiji, the hosts, beat Papua New Guinea by 2-0 and advanced to the quarterfinals. Papua New Guinea, on the other hand, finished last overall in the competition and was eliminated – as Tonga. The dark situation internally in Papua New Guinean football seems to get even worse.

In Group A, New Caledonia advanced, winning all its matches; Samoa, with a team full of legionnaires, came second, beating Tonga and Vanuatu, while the team from Melanesia qualified as one of the best third-placed teams.

In Group C, the Cook Islands got everyone by surprise and advanced in first place, with the team showing great organization on the field, beating the Solomon Islands 1-0 and drawing with Tahiti. The Solomon Islands beat Tahiti to move into second place, while Tahiti, who suffered from injuries before and during the tournament, still managed to move ahead into the third place.

Samoa and Vanuatu players contest the ball possession – OFC Media

Two duels in the quarterfinals, Samoa vs Tahiti and Fiji vs New Caledonia promise to be very even. New Zealand will probably progress without any difficulties against Solomon Islands while Cook Islands has a slightly favouritism over Vanuatu.

Vanuatu: Brian Kaltak returns to his Erakor village victorious

The small village of Erakor in Vanuatu erupted in joy and celebration as Brian Kaltak, the national team captain and recent A-League champion, returned home. Kaltak had made history by leading the Central Coast Mariners to victory in the prestigious Australian league, and his success had turned him into a national hero in his homeland.

The atmosphere in Erakor was electrifying as the local authorities, representatives from the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF), and passionate supporters gathered to welcome back their beloved captain. The village adorned with colorful banners and flags, creating a festive ambiance that resonated with the pride and admiration the community felt for their accomplished athlete.

The cerimony commenced with speeches from the local authorities, who praised Kaltak’s achievements and highlighted his journey from the humble beginnings of Erakor to becoming a shining star on the international stage. They acknowledged his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his dreams, inspiring the youth of the village to believe in their own potential.

Brian Kaltak welcomed back – Brej Pacific

Representatives from the VFF also expressed their gratitude and pride in having Kaltak as the captain of the national team. His leadership and skill had been instrumental in guiding Vanuatu to new heights, culminating in their historic win over Mongolia in the Internacontinental Cup. The 1-0 victory marked the first-ever triumph for Vanuatu against a non-OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) opponent, a significant milestone for Vanuatu football.

Brian Kaltak’s return to Erakor was a momentous occasion, symbolizing the triumph of talent, perseverance, and community spirit. His remarkable achievements in Australia and his captaincy of the national team had elevated him to the status of a national hero. Through his journey, he had become a shining example for aspiring footballers in Vanuatu, showing them that dreams can indeed become reality with hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of a community.