Please forgive my boy, was an emotional plea from Keresi Maya (Snr) whose son and namesake punched referee Peni Talemaivavalagi during the Skipper Cup Under-19 game at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori on Saturday.

Speaking to SUNsports from Naselesele, Taveuni, yesterday, he said the punching incident has brought shame to their family.

“I found out about the incident on Facebook,” Maya (Snr) said.

“There was no excuse for my Yaca (namesake) to do such a thing and we’re really sorry about it.”

Maya (Snr) confirmed that they (family members) were leaving Taveuni last night on their way to Suva.

He said they were coming over to present their Matanigasau (traditional apology) to the province of Naitasiri, Fiji Rugby Union and to the family of Talemaivavalagi.

“I’m really saddened by this and again I beg everyone, especially the referee Peni and his family, if my Yaca can be forgiven for what he has done.

“Please forgive Yaca, he is a young player and has a long way to go in rugby,” he said.

Maya (Jnr) had signed up with National Rugby League (NRL) club Cronulla Sharks on a three-year contract, last year.

He had to return to Fiji in April due to the COVID-19 pandemic and joined the Naitasiri U19 side.

“As human beings we are bound to make mistakes and Yaca is now regretting what he did on Saturday and we are ashamed of his action.

“We did not expect Yaca to do what he did and that was the last thing on earth he should have done,” Maya (Snr) said.

He also indicated that they had forgiven those who had posted negative comments on social media about his son’s action.

Maya (Snr) also apologised to the province of Naitasiri.

“To the Naitasiri Rugby Union board and the vanua o Naitasiri please forgive Yaca for what he did and the shame he has caused the province,” he said.

“We clearly understand your frustrations and we are sorry and this goes to his team-mates and coaching staff. At the same time I want to thank the Naitasiri Rugby Union for allowing Yaca to play for them.

“Naitasiri is home away from home for him and he loves to play for Naitasiri. And our apologies also goes to the Fiji Rugby Union.”

When contacted Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said investigation was still ongoing because they had to wait the medical report.

“The suspect is still in custody,” Naisoro added.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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