The Nadi football team have successfully defended the Ram’s Cleaning Services Pacific Cup at Prince Charles Park, Nadi yesterday. The hosts beat the All Star New Zealand side 1-0 and walked away with $10,000 while the runners- up pocketed $3000. Versatile Nadi goalkeeper Vereti Dickson was the hero of the side after he stopped a penalty to give them the win.

What happened: It was a tough encounter as both teams tried hard to break the deadlock. Both teams had scoring opportunities but strong defence kept the scores at nil-all.

Halftime: Nadi 0 – 0 All Star New Zealand

Both teams increased the tempo in the second half as they hunt for a win. Nadi kept on the pressure and got a penalty which Mataiasi Toma scored from the spot kick. The visitors had their chance to equalise in the 46th minute when they received a penalty after a Nadi defender touched the ball. But Dickson made a brilliant save on Brian Kaltack’s attempt.

Big Play: Rookie Nadi player Alfraz Ali played exceptionally well and helped his team to victory.

Star Turn: Dickson who saved the penalty and that was the turning point of the final.

Comments:

Nadi coach Marika Namaqa said: “I thank God for his guidance especially after taking on this new role as coach. In the beginning our performance physically was not up to par.

“We began our build-up from there and we worked together as a team. I would also like to thank our families, staff members and supporters for cheering us on.”

All Star New Zealand coach Junior Bukalidi said: “End of the day, one is going to win and the other is going to lose. We tried our best and we fought on, I would like to thank the boys as they came out fighting and they fought well but luck was against us.”

Meanwhile, in the semi-finals Nadi beat USA All Stars 2-1 while New Zealand All Stars dumped Suva 3-1.