Port Vila Football supports Amical FC

Port Vila Football Association (PVFA) made a very generous donation to Amical football Club this week with a cheque of 200 000 vatu. PVFA President Sowany Joseph handed over the cheques to Andrew Leong, Amical Team manager in Port Vila on Wednesday. Sowany Joseph, PVFA President said, "We are honored to be able to donate the money to our top club in Vanuatu to help them prepare for the O League." We strongly believe that Amical FC has a good team and on behalf of Football players and fans in Port Vila I want to wish the team all the best of luck." Andrew Leong Amical FC team manager said "It is fantastic to see that Port Vila Football Association so pro-active in their efforts and to see such support from them to my club." " I am are very proud of our achievements last season to be the new champion of Vanuatu and the hard work of a lot of people connected with the club has also led to on-field success." He said, "Amical FC will never give up and will play with pride for their Football Association (PVFA) Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) and play for the people of Vanuatu. The team is fit, strong and ready to play Hekari on the 23rd October 2010 in Papua New Guinea." ---------------------------------------------------------

New Zealand 14 Vanuatu 0

New Zealand have beaten Vanuatu 14-0 in the opening match on day one of the OFC Women's Nations Cup 2010. See below for the play-by-play action. New Zealand: 1. Jenny BINDON (GK), 2. Ria PERCIVAL, 4. Katie HOYLE, 5. Abby ERCEG, 7. Ali RILEY, 8. Hayley MOORWOOD (c), 9. Amber HEARN, 14. Rosie WHITE, 15. Sarah GREGORIUS, 17. Hannah WILKINSON, 18. Kristy HILL Vanuatu: 17. Haia TAIWIA (GK), 2. Leisale SOLOMON, 3. Sylvia VATAKO, 4. Sergine POIDA, 5. Sileye SAINA, 6. Jeanine ALATOA, 8. Stephanie TOUGEN 9. Joella AVOCK, 10. Elodie SAMUEL (c), 11. Serah THOMPSON, 15. Evensta ARU The match kicks off. 1' New Zealand's Amber Hearn hits the post but is called back for offside 5' Sarah Gregorius (New Zealand) sees her shot from outside the box saved 6' Rosie White (New Zealand) makes a run into the box but a heavy touch lets her down 7' White is caught offside 8' Vanuatu goalkeeper Haia Taiwia makes a fine save from Amber Hearn's shot 10' GOAL!!! New Zealand 1 Vanuatu 0: Amber Hearn opens the scoring with a strong header from Ria Percival's corner 11' GOAL!!! New Zealand 2 Vanuatu 0: Hearn grabs a quick double with an easy tap in after a strong run by Hannah Wilkinson down the right 13' Taiwia (Vanuatu) makes another good save from Amber Hearn's deflected shot 15' Rosie White is caught offside again 18' GOAL!!! New Zealand 3 Vanuatu 0: Hearn completes her hat-trick with a powerful low strike from just inside the area 20' Ali Riley (New Zealand) sees her shot hit the bar 21' Sarah Gregorius (New Zealand) goes 1 on 1 with the goalkeeper but Taiwia makes a brilliant save 25' Hearn is caught offside 25' GOAL!!! New Zealand 4 Vanuau 0: Captain Hayley Moorwood gets on the score sheet finishing her 1 v 1 opportunity 27' Taiwia comes off her line to make another good save for Vanuatu 29' GOAL!!! New Zealand 5 Vanuatu 0: Amber Hearn climbs high at the backpost to head home Ria Percival's freekick 34' SUBSTITUTION: Marseline Bakokoto replaces an injured Sylvia Vatoko for Vanuatu 37' Sarah Gregorius is caught offside 39' Hannah Wilkinson fires a shot high from the back post 42' GOAL!!! New Zealand 6 Vanuatu 0: Hannah Wilkinson has an easy tap in after some good play by Rosie White 45 +1' Hayley Moorwood sees her shot saved 45+ 2' GOAL!!! New Zealand 7 Vanuatu 0: Abby Erceg is the first to pounce a loose ball at the back post from a Ria Percival corner The referee brings the first half to an end. The second half kicks off. 46' SUBSTITUTION: Anna Green replaces Ali Riley for New Zealand 46' Vanuatu captain Elodie Samuel sees her shot scew wide 48' SUBSTITUTION: Serah Thompson is replacd by Phina Angelo for Vanuatu 52' Abby Erceg commits a foul in a dangerous position 53' Vanuatu take the free kick and the ball bounces around inside the box but eventually rolls out for a goal kick 54' GOAL!!! New Zealand 8 Vanuatu 0 Rosie White scores her first senior goal for New Zealand 59' GOAL!!! New Zealand 9 Vanuatu 0 Hannah Wilkinson picks her spot to grab a brace 61' SUBSTITUTION: Joella Avock is replaced by Melanie Mansale for Vanuatu 65' SUBSTITUTION: New Zealand make a double substitution with Sarah Gregorius coming off for Liz Milne while Maia Jackman replaces Abby Erceg 68' GOAL!!! New Zealand 10 Vanuatu 0: Liz Milne scores after Vanuatu goalkeeper Haia Taiwia spills the ball 73' GOAL!!! New Zealand 11 Vanuatu 0: Hannah Wilkinson scores a hat-trick after an unfortunate miss by Taiwia 79' White has a shot at goal but the ball sails over the bar 81' GOAL!!! New Zealand 12 Vanuatu 0: Moorwood finishes off a Hearn cross 88' Percival breaks down the right and sees her shot saved by Taiwia 89' GOAL!!! New Zealand 13 Vanuatu 0: Wilkinson finishes from close range 90' + 1' GOAL!!! New Zealand 14 Vanuatu 0: Hearn grabs her fifth The final whistle sounds ---------------------------------------------------------

Tafea, Amical and Yatel pull off wins in Day 2

Tafea step up their opening match of the season and took on the Academy youngsters last weekend and came away with a 1-0 win thanks to a second half goal from new striker Noal Morris (11) in 83 minutes. The game saw both teams struggling up front to create chances which left both teams goal less at half time. After the break Tafea got more into the game through crucial defending by Captain Freddy Vava and veteran striker Richard Iwai up front creating havoc among the Academy players. It was not long before Tafea found an opening upfront which saw striker Noal breaking away from the Academy defence to slot in and seal Tafea's win. Wilson August, Academy assistant coach said, "Our boys were lucky to be 0-0 at half-time. In the first part of the game they could have killed us off. But I am convinced we would have won the game."  The whole team was mentally unbelievable because we kept going and kept going, against an opponent that was class and both sides missed chances. We played against a great side but gave away one very cheap goal which is really beyond our understanding, "he concluded. The win gives the Vanuatu Power Reds 3 points on the table. Second match of the day saw the new revamped Yatel FC bouncing back from their opening day loss to Spirit 08 FC to produce a stunning 2-0 over a struggling Ifira Black Birds side. The match was a one sided game as Yatel dominated both halfs. Yatel striker Peter Lency got one in early in the second half and super sub Tom Loughman sealed the win through a low drive just outside the penalty box. Last match of the day saw Fendey Masauvakalo, Moffat Deramoa and Jack Whitney seal a 3-1 win over Tupuji Imere. First half saw Amical netting their 3 goals after dominating the first half. After the break Tupuji shut down the entire Amical midfield to dominate the last half. Tupuji's consolation goal came late in the second half after referee Bruce George called a handball in the penalty box and saw Ando Malampa making no mistake converting the penalty.   Photo: captain (6) Freddy Vava congratulating striker Noal Morris (11) after his crucial goal. ---------------------------------------------------------

Vanuatu face tough start

Coach Richard Iwai is under no illusions about how hard it will be for his Vanuatu team to pick up any points in their OFC Women's Nations Cup opener on Wednesday. The side will meet defending champions New Zealand on the oval ground at Auckland's North Harbour Stadium in a game that appears, on paper at least, to be a mismatch of the highest degree. The Football Ferns are heavily favoured to retain their title and have a group of world-class performers in their ranks. In contrast, this tournament marks Vanuatu's first appearance in a women's senior event and they are very much the underdogs. "It's going to be very tough," Iwai says. "I never expected to play New Zealand first and I didn't want to be in the same pool as them. They are on a much higher level to us so our aim is just to do our best." Sweden-based midfielder Kirsty Yallop will not face Vanuatu - she has not returned in time but will arrive in Auckland before New Zealand's second match against Cook Islands on Friday. But Vanuatu may still have to contend with the likes of Hayley Moorwood, who recently put pen to paper on a deal with English giants Chelsea, and Ali Riley, the OFC Women's Player of the Year and USA Women's Professional Soccer League Rookie of the Year. "We know that New Zealand are very strong," Iwai says. "I have seen their U-20 team play and the senior side will be another step up from that." Iwai must wish he could strap the boots on himself and get out there to help his charges. The 30-year-old is a highly accomplished player and starred in Vanuatu's FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns in 2002, 2006 and 2010. He is also a previous nominee for the OFC Player of the Year title and has been playing his club football in Australia for the past three seasons. He has tried to pass on some of his class and knowledge to the squad but has not had time on his side. "I have only been with the team for a few weeks so it has been hard to make a lot of progress. I would've prefered to have six months or so but that's just the way it is." To make things even tougher for Iwai, most of his players do not have backgrounds in the 11-a-side game. "They have been playing futsal for their whole lives so it's hard for them to come out onto a big pitch and play football," he says. Although he realises his squad will probably come away from the New Zealand game empty-handed, Iwai will not be happy returning home without a win. Vanuatu will meet Cook Islands and Tahiti in their other Group A matches and Iwai has his sights set on a pair of wins. "We will try to win the other two games at least, that's our aim," he says. "But the main thing is to do as well as we can so we can attract more women to play football when we go back home." ---------------------------------------------------------

Football Fans Get Ready for TVL 2010 Kick off

Excitement is building around Vanuatu football fans in anticipation for the most prestigious TVL soccer tournament in Port Vila.  Vanuatu Football Federation Technical Director, Charles Vatu has announced last week that the tournament will be held in Port Vila from 18th October to 27th October 2010. Three top clubs of Southern Region will play each other to find the winner to play Northern Region Champion, Vaum United Football Club in the final on the 25th and 27th October 2010. Shepherds United Football Club (PVFA first division champion 2009/ 2010), Lakotau Football Club (Shefa Football Association) and Hilands Football Club of Tafea Football Association will kick off the TVL Cup on the 18th October 2010. Program: Venue: Port Vila Stadium Monday 18th October           15:30hrs               Shepherds United FC    vs          Lakotau FC Wednesday 20th October     15:30hrs               Lakotau FC                    vs          Hilands FC Saturday 23rd October          15:30hrs              Hilands FC                      vs         Shepherds United FC   "This is going to be a challenging tournament for the three clubs," VFF Technical Director, Charles Vatu said. "Shepherds United, Lakotau and Hilands FC are good teams and consistently play strong competitions in their provinces. I am completely confident that the fans will enjoy the tournament." 2010 TVL Cup Grand finals (Home and Away matches). Venue: Port Vila Stadium Monday 25th October          15:30hrs              Vaum United (Santo)         vs      Winner Southern Region Wednesday 27th October    15:30hrs             Winner Southern Region    vs      Vaum United (Santo) Telecom Vanuatu Limited (TVL) is the biggest Partner of Vanuatu Football Federation for the last 10 years and VFF would like to thank the company for their continuous sponsorship for football development in the country. Winner of TVL Cup 2010 will play Tafea FC (PVFA Premier 2009/2010 runner up) in the final of 2010 Bred Cup on the 30th October 2010. ---------------------------------------------------------

Bred Bank becomes sponsor for the U 20 Tournament

Bred Bank Vanuatu will become the flagship sponsor for the U 20 tournament. Port Vila Football Association is proud to announce that the tournament will kick off this Saturday in Port Vila. The tournament consists of four pools with 12 teams already register to participate in Youth Bred Football Tournament. Pool 1: Academy 1, Amical and Lopatu. Pool 2: Tafea, Epau and Yatel.  Pool 3: Academy 2, Erakor and Ifira Black Bird.  Pool 4: North Efate, Tupuji Imere and Pango Green Bird. Bred Bank has been involved with football sponsorship for few years now and after the years of relationship with VFF; Port Vila Football Association is currently re-focusing its marketing priorities to promote the Bank. One member of the PVFA executive said, "I think that football is the best sport in Vanuatu and we have the opportunity to attract even more fans in this country, as well as abroad, if we keep promoting it to our young children and we must thank Bred bank for their support in youth football," "To find top players of tomorrow, we must start promoting football for youth now. The football lessons we teach the young players of today will be with them for the rest of their lives, and there is no better place to teach children about the World than on the field of play."   Program for this Saturday 25 September 2010 10am        Pool 1   Academy 1 vs Amical        Field: Amical 11:30am   Pool 2   Tafea vs Epau                  Field: Academy 13:00hrs   Pool 3   Academy 2 vs Erakor        Field: Academy 14:30hrs   Pool 4   North Efate vs Tupuji        Field: Academy ---------------------------------------------------------

We always enjoy playing Tafea, says Nalyal

Spirit 08 cruised through their opening 2010/2011 Championship game
with a win over Yatel Football Club last weekend but the team
officials are not happy with the player's performance.

The damage was done in the opening half with first goal scored from
Edu David before Yatel equalize and second half goal from young Robert
Tasso (9)gave the Spirit  3 points on the table.

Edward Nalyal 08 team manager said, "Our boys had probably their worst
game in a long time. Some of our boys played very poorly as some had
not trained properly the week before. "

Edward says he is in confident mood as his team prepare for a
potentially tough match against Tafea next week.

"This week we are focusing on good training to prepare for the game
with Tafea in 1 week time (we have a bye this weekend). All said, we
are happy with the 3 points as a good start for us in the 2010/11
season."

"It's true Tafea were a problem for us last year - they beat us many
times. They might be another problem for us this time, but if our boys
train hard and play well maybe we can beat them."

 "We always enjoy playing against Tafea as they are experienced team
and we can measure our progress by how we compete against Tafea," he
concluded.

Last week result: Spirit 08 2 vs Yatel 1, Academy 2 vs Ifira Black
Bird 0, Shepherds United 2 vs Tupuji 1

This Saturday schedules:

12:00         Academy     vs        Tafea

13:45         Yatel FC       vs        Ifira Black Bird

15:30        Amical FC    vs        Tupuji Imere FC

---------------------------------------------------------

Objective to be in top 5, says United coach

New Comer of the Premier Division, Shepherds United beat Tupuji 2-1 in their first premier match after 5 years last Saturday. The man behind Shepherds victory is the head coach, Albert Manaroto who guides them to win the first division championship last season and last week he helps the team to beat one of strongest football clubs in Port Vila, Tupuji Imere. Albert said, "The boys have performed well in the first division last season and now we are looking forward to play the premier clubs." The boys played well when we beat Tupuji Imere last Saturday and its good news for our supporters who really support us from the beginning." "There will be new challenge, but for this season my boys are ready 100 percent to play. People must have objectives in life and in football our objective to be in top 5," he added. United boys will not be on the field this weekend and will play Yatel FC next week at Port Vila Stadium. "We'll play against Yatel next week. A victory would help us remain calm. Three points are always important because you never know how crucial the clubs may be at the end of the season.""This week, we will be able to identify exactly what are weaknesses are and what we need to improve upon in addition to our team strengths and what we need to continue doing well in order to play Yatel FC  next Saturday," he concluded. ---------------------------------------------------------

Alick Maemae to play for Amical FC

Solomon Islands football sensation Alick Maemae in white has confirmed to the Amical Management that he will be joining the club as of next week. The Amical Management has confirmed that talks with Maemae have come through with Maemae's family giving their consent for Maemae to come play for Vanuatu's O-League rep Amical FC. Maemae whom was instrumental in Hekari's O-League win will now be joining Hekari colleague Stanley Waita who now also plays for Amical himself since arriving last month. Amical Management has confirmed that all the necessary paperworks (ITC) is completed and are now waiting for Alick Maemae who will be coming over on Tuesday 28 September next week. Report has shown that Amical's Solomon Islands import players have quickly adapted to the simple way of life in Vanuatu which is very similar to theirs back home and have been able to move around freely among the population in Port Vila because of the pidgin language which Vanuatu and Solomon have in common. Amical's Richard Anisua, Nelson Sale and Batram Suri have been role models for the younger players in the club and together with the other Solomon Islanders have been running a kids club during the weekends at Amical's football pitch, the Antoine Rossi field. Maemae's coming to Amical will strengthen the clubs midfield and attacking force as the club braces itself for the upcoming O-League tournament. ---------------------------------------------------------

Young Kaltak Inspire Academy Coach

Young Jean Kaltak (11) inspired VFF Academy to shrug off their sluggish start to the season as they beat new Premier comer Ifira Black Bird 2-0 at the Port Vila Stadium last Saturday. Superb Kaltak struck Academy opener out of nothing in the first half and score the second goal in the second half to seal the victory for the young stars. Academy Head coach Moise Poida was full of praise for Kaltak after the match and said he believed VFF recent decision to make the Erakor young boy to be part of the academy is not a mistake and had breathed new life into his game plan.   Poida added: ". He is only 17 years and he is an important player and he can improve as top Vanuatu football striker in the future if he thinks very seriously with his football career. "I'm very happy for him because at this moment he probably isn't at 100% of his form. Maybe his two goals can help him and it is fantastic he got both of them today."    "I had confidence in my boys and I told them before the match we could win. Ifira Black Bird are very strong and well organized team and knows how to win the ball and keep possession. That's why our victory is so precious and we are happy that we have 3 points in our first match", he told Vanuafoot.   Vanuatu coach, Moise Poida said that they would look forward to more challenging matches against the Premier Clubs in Port Vila. He also acknowledges that the matches against the young stars will assist them in their preparation for Oceania Football Confederation U 20 tournament in New Zealand next year 2011.  Academy next match is against Tafea FC this Saturday at Port Vila Stadium. ---------------------------------------------------------

Shepherds United, Academy and Spirit 08 pull off wins

Shepherds United, Academy and Spirit 08 record wins in thy opening day of the Port Vila Football 2010/2011 Season over the weekend. Shepherds whom are new comers in the premier division opened the day's matches with a deserved 2-1 win over Tupuji Imere FC. Shepherds got one early into the game thanks to an Albert Api strike earlier in the first half. Tupuji's equalizer came right after the spell break with Ando cracking in a superb 40 meter free kicking to send the Tupuji fans celebrating in the stands. But it was Shepherds whom made the most of their chances against a now 10 man Tupuji side who had defender Tintin sent off late into the second half and saw Shepherds pulling one up to seal a much deserved 2-1 victory over Tupuji. Second game of the day saw the young Academy FC side coming away with a 2-0 win over new comers Ifira Blackbirds FC. It was a double strike in each half from promising striker Jean Kaltak that sealed the victory for Academy. Academy dominated much of the game with their brilliant ball controls, passing and superior fitness form displayed against a struggling Ifira side that were not in form compared to their side that got a surprise 2-1 win over O-League reps Amical FC. Last match of the day saw Spirit 08 FC scraping a 2-1 win over a now revamped Yatel FC side. It was Spirit that got one in early into the game only to be leveled by a brilliant Yatel goal just before tha half time. But in the end Spirit got back into the game late into the second half to seal a win. ---------------------------------------------------------

Port Vila Football kicks off 2010/2011

Port Vila Football Association (PVFA) 2010/2011 Season gets underway this weekend at the Port Vila Municipal Stadium. There were 8 clubs in the Premier league and the opening day this Saturday 18 September 2010 will feature 3 matches. New comers Shepherds United FC will take on Tupuji Imere FC in what promises to be a colorful game as both clubs play a similar brand of football along with their colorful supporters in black and white and Tupuji's yellow and blue. Shepherds United since it will be their first game in the premier division will look to stamp their mark as they have done going into the Independence Cup finals and recently the third and fourth place playoffs in the TVL Cup premier division off season. Tupuji on the other hand is an unpredictable opponent that all premier clubs know off and they can pull off anything from a win to a draw, though they are not one of the top premier clubs they have been up there for a quite some time and have the experience. Their match kicks off at 12pm. Second game of the day will see Academy FC take on new comers Ifira Black Birds FC. The Academy side comprising of Vanuatu's national Under 17 and 20 reps have made a name for themselves from day 1 in the premier division and have already proven themselves as team not to be taken lightly as they have pocketed several draws with former champions Tafea FC and new champions Amical FC last season. Ifira will come on strong riding on their surprise victory over O-League reps Amical FC in the TVL Cup and will try to go one better since their disappointing Independence and TVL Cup campaigns. This match will kick off at 1:45pm. Final game of the day at 3:30pm will see Spirit 08 take on Yatel FC. The newly revamped Spirit 08 will look to improve on their performance this season as they now have the potential and experience at their side to go head to head with the best since moving up to the premier division in 2008. While Yatel whom have slowly been building themselves up as a team, will look to make a good start after a disappointing last season.   There are no matches for the two champions, Tafea and Amical this week, but next week according to the program, Tafea will play Spirit 08 and Amical will take on the young stars from Teouma. ---------------------------------------------------------

It’s a difficult Woman’s Group; says Vanuatu woman’s coach

With very few islands around Vanuatu operating leagues for teenage girls, the task of selecting a women's team is not an easy one for most national coaches. One Woman who seems to have found a successful blend, however, is Vanuatu Woman's Team Manager Martha Poida, who has been helping Woman's football competition in Port Vila for some years now. "It's a tough task because few talented players are scattered all over the country and it's your job to go out there and find the best players," She tell Vanuafoot Media. If results over the last couple of years are anything to go by, Martha has done a fine job of tracking down the country's best young footballers. "I have faith in this generation and am sure they will play very good matches against teams in our group during the OFC Woman's competition in New Zealand. Vanuatu Woman's team has been drawn in a fiercely competitive group A alongside OFC title candidates New Zealand, Cooks islands and Tahiti. "We have a lot of respect for our opponent's especially New Zealand but everything will be decided out on the pitch," says Coach Richard Iwai who is the coach of Vanuatu national Woman's team. "It's a difficult group," they (NZ) have a lot of skill and talent. They are very quick and athletic too and they're very creative out on the pitch, acknowledges Richard Iwai. At the end of the day it's 11 against 11 on the pitch and we have high hopes of doing well," Richard concluded. Program for Vanuatu in the OFC Woman's tournament: 29/09/2010   11am (Vanuatu time)        Vanuatu vs New Zealand 01/10/2010    11am (Vanuatu time)       Vanuatu vs Tahiti 03/10/2010    13:30hrs (Vanuatu time) Vanuatu vs Cook Islands List of selected players and officials: Goalkeeper: Rose Marie Yolou and Leisale Solomon Defender: Thelma Kalpukai, Louisa Sovuai, Silvia Vatoko, Sileye Saina, Melanie Mansale, Jeannie Alatoa, Sergine Poida, Marseline Bakokoto. Midfielder: Stephanie Tougen, Janice Alatoa, Evensta Aru, Joella Dominique Avock. Striker: Serah Thompson, Elodie Samuel, Fina Sabrina Angelo. Officials: Head of Delegation: Charles Vatu, Team manager: Martha Poida, Head Coach: Richard Iwai. Assistant Coach: Suzanne Herrominly, Assistant Team Manager: Mardy Tarimiala, Physio: Annie Brenda Tamata. ---------------------------------------------------------

Referees must work hard to provide fair game. Nase Carlo

Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) Referee Development Officer, Nase Carlo, confirmed that Referees from Port Vila Football Association were tested at Korman Stadium last week and nearly all of them passed their fitness test. "The tests conclude that referees qualify, in terms of fitness, will be ready to officiate matches coming up this weekend when the championship kick offs at Port Vila Stadium."I am more than satisfied with their performance in the tests." Say Carlo. The physical fitness test was conducted by the VFF Referee Development Officer in collaboration with other Referee Instructors. "Referees must keep in mind that players and coaches put in lots of time to prepare for the game and they have the right to expect a competent referee." It's important that Referees take his or her job seriously and to provide a fair game to everyone." "Taking a little time each week to review the Laws of the Game or to discuss a call with your fellow referees are important ways to ensure that you all are on the top of the Laws of the Game." says Carlo. "We try to maintain our high standards every season for all referees and I trust that we can continue to work together and further promote our referees at local , OFC and international level," say Harry Atisson member of the Vanuatu Referee Committee. Vanuatu Football praises the work of the local referees and congratulates them and thank them for their contribution to local football within their Associations over many years. ---------------------------------------------------------

Amical FC clinches the TVL Cup

A last minute goal from Solomon Island's Jack Whitney sealed a hard fought victory for Amical FC over Tafea FC in the TVL Cup final on Saturday. The two teams entered the Port Vila Stadium in front of a record number of crowds whom had arrived several hours earlier before the finals took place eager. Amical FC took the reins early with a superb free kick from Amical captain, Fenedy Masauvakalo. New Amical Solomon Islands import player Gibson Daudau was taken down just inside the 30 metres mark and Fenedy stepped up and calmly converted a fantastic free kick sending a swerving ball over the Tafea wall and into an empty Tafea net. It was not long before Tafea got back into the game with a Samson Obed spot kick after a handball error in the penalty box. The First half ended with both team at 1-1. The second half saw a hard fought match with both teams trying to get back into the game. Tafea had numerous chances to go one up but failed to capitalize with Francois Sakama coming close only to be denied by an Ernest Bong brilliant save and Tafea's Michael Kaltak failing to convert a Jean Nako pass just inside the 6 metres mark. After what seemed to be a goal drought second half, it was Jack Whitney that shattered Tafea's hopes with a goal that sealed the TVL Cup for Amical FC in 89 minutes. Amical Management before the game said that they will be using this match as a preparation for their O League campaign next month against Hekari and what a preparation it is, with new import Gibson Daudau proving his worth as a worthy player setting up the first goal. Andrew Leong Amical Team manager and main sponsor said, "I am happy for my team performances today and thank Tafea FC for a very good match," he said.   "I think we played better, faster, we found space. In the first half we played too slow, it was easy for Tafea to defend. But it was an interesting game and I am very happy."   "I just know Gibson Daudau few days ago. He is in a good moment, he is fresh because he did not plays a lot of games with us and he played very well in this match and thank Whitney who scored the winning goal and thank you too to all my players and club supporters," he said.    This week Port Vila Football Association Championship kicks off with its 2010/2011 Season and "today I see some potential Vanuatu reps in the field and Vanuatu Football Federation should be proud at the rate Vanuatu football is going," said a happy Amical fan after the match.

Seveners United went to the TVL cup final.

Eventhough they went down to first division this season, but yet they proved themselves to the crowd that they are one of the experience premier team, after beating Siaraga in the semi final match last Thursday 9 september 2010 at port vila Municipal stadium. In the first 20 minutes of the game, Seveners sticker Junior Isacaa made a good pass through the Siraga defense and found another  stricker Reece Lerr then he score the first goal for the united. After the goal, Siaraga made some count attack but, Seveners defense under the leadership of Spencer (capt)they did not allow Siaraga to equalise. The boys in green recovered slowly with the ball with the good ball handeling of the midfield towards the defense yard of Siaraga, they put pressure until one of the Siaraga's defender clear a loose ball but the ball went straight  to Seveners sticker Reece, he did not miss the chance while firing the secong powerfull goal. Seveners controlled the game until the last 5 minutes before the end of the first half, midfielder Hamsen found the right winger Andrew, he cross a good high ball inside the Siaraga's goal mouth area, and found the goal scorer's  head Reece, the ball went inside the net and put the third goal and made Seveners lead the first half with 3-0. In the second half, the boys in green change their formation, they played  defensive game until the final wistle. Again Seveners players would like to dedicate this win to Digicel for the contribution they did to them  last week. Finally , Seveners goal scorer Reece Lerr is leading the goal scoring this time with 10 goals in 4 matchs.Seveners united will face Siwi FC in the final for the TVL cup next week 16^th of september  2010.

 

Willy Albert

INTER-PROVINCIAL GAMES FROM 12th to 15th SEPTEMBER

The 3rd New Caledonia's Inter Provincial Games will be held from the 12th September to 15th September 2010 in Bourail, New Caledonia. This event is a real opportunity for U14 and U16 young people to share their experiences and take part in an Oceania multisport event. Vanuatu will be represented by 47 participants and 8 officials representing the federations of Athletics, Beach Volleyball, Cricket, Football and Pétanque. The delegation will be lead by Aurélie Jacquier, VASANOC Management Consultant. VASANOC would like to thank the CTOS (Olympic Committee) and the South Province of New Caledonia for their real support in offering 40 free airfares for the players. A big thank you to Vanuatu Brewing Limited for providing T-shirts to the officials and coaches of the delegation. VASANOC wishes all the best to all the competitors who are competing in the Inter-provincial Games in New Caledonia. ---------------------------------------------------------

Players must stay focused: Leong

Amical manager, Andrew Leong wants his players must stay focus when they go into battle against  Tafea FC this Saturday for the TVL Cup final, and he is looking for another top performance from Fenedy Masauvakalo and Jack Whitney  in Saturday's final.   He made this statement to warn his players that Tafea will come back after they lost to them 4-2 in their pool game last week. "I trust Fenedy as the captain with my players but they must stay focus," said Andrew Leong.   Amical veteran striker Batram Suri has left the country to go back home to the Solomons after sustaining a knee injury, but all is not  loss as Amical have already recruited another Solomon Islands striker Gibson Daudau from the Solomon Warriors.    "The final with the former champions Tafea FC has come at a right time for we will be using the game as a preparation for our O- League campaign and Tafea is a big test for us because they have the experience and we will use this opportunity to put to test all our players."Andrew added.   Amical FC has already released its possible lineup against Tafea in the TVL Cup final this weekend with Jack Whitney and Fenedy Masauvakalo up front, Stanley Waita, Dereck Malas , Gibson Daudau and Robert Yelou in the midfield and Nelson Sale, Richard Anisua, Paul and Selwin in the defense department and Ernest Bong as the first choice keeper.   On the other hand Tafea FC has not yet released their possible lineup but have revenge in their sight after going down 4-2 to Amical in the pool games and will not take the final lightly with their attacking style of football.   Tafea have their lethal weapon Francois Sakama to rely on up front.   Sakama has been in training with Amical for some weeks and there has been talks of a possible transfer but las weekend saw Sakama back with Tafea scoring a crucial goal in Tafea's 2-1 victory over Spirit 08.   STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES Amical FC: Amical FC are likely to look to Dereck Malas  on the right flank to contribute his usual spark. Further forward, Fenedy Masauvakkalo and Jack Whitney has fired few goals in the competition this term and will be eager to score more goals in the final. TheSolomon Islander is likely to be partnered by Stanley Waita, with solid control move of Robert Yolou patrolling central midfield. Tafea Coach: Robert Calvo is expected to employ a 4-4-2-1 formation for the final, showcasing Francois Sakama as sole striker. The Tafea FC coach is nonetheless a past master at defying expectations and could opt for an attacking configuration boasting five forwards or two banks of four players.  TVL Cup grand final will kick off at 3pm this Saturday 11 September at the Port Vila Stadium.  ---------------------------------------------------------

Harry Atisson participates in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup

Vanuatu FIFA Referee Assessor Harry Atisson now is back in Trinidad and Tobago to assess the FIFA U17 women's World Cup referees that have just kicked off on Monday this week. Atisson received a short notice from FIFA asking him to participate in the event as a Referee Assessor. This is not the first time Atisson has been to the Caribbean. Atisson was there in 2001 as a referee himself in the FIFA U17 World Cup for boys just after the September 11 incident and was the first referee to officiate the opening match between Nigeria and USA where he called a 1 minute silence for the players to pay respects to the lives lost at the September 11 incident before the game kicked off. Tobago football officials still remember Atisson and had a special welcome especially for him being the youngest FIFA Referee Committee Member.  "I am happy to go back to Tobago even though it was a short notice because it is the where I laid down my foundation in being someone in the world of football and I have always enjoyed the Dwight York Stadium and coming back to it brings back fond memories, but now I come not as a referee but a referee assessor." --------------------------------------------------------

Vakatalesau eyes a stint with Hekari

Vakatalesau eyes a stint with Hekari September 06, 2010 By Reginald Chandar National and Lautoka striker Osea Vakatalesau is currently in Papua New Guinea, trying to seal a deal with O League champions Hekari United. Vakatalesau flew out of the country on Saturday and missed Lautoka's National League encounter against Suva at Churchill Park yesterday. The 24 year old Wailotua native from Tailevu had his suspension temporarily uplifted by Lautoka Football Association last week and has to re-appear before the disciplinary committee next Saturday for the final verdict. Vakatalesau and six other players faced suspension after failing to attend a team fitness test a week before the Battle Of the Giants tournament in Nadi. LFA president Shalendra Prasad said the news of Vakatalesau's departure came as a surprise to him as he was only informed yesterday. "I only came to know about his departure to PNG today (yesterday) when I visited the players in the changing room before the match against Suva," said Prasad. "His (Osea's) elder brother Leone Vurukania told me about Osea and his intention to play for Hekari." "At this point, I cannot say much because he is still yet to appear for the final hearing next Saturday." "We will not stop him if he wants to leave but there are things like his contract and the suspension issues that needs to be cleared" Prasad continued. Vakatalesau scored 15 goals for Fiji in the 2010 World Cup Qualifiers and finished off as the top goal scorer in the first stage of qualifiers. The lethal finisher also had a short stint with New Zealand club YoungHeart Manawatu. If he gets the nod to join Hekari then he will be the fourth Fijian player to be part of Jerry Allen's star studded outfit. Pita Bolaitoga, Tuimasi Manuca and Alvin Singh are already contracted by the club. Ba's star midfielder Malakai Tiwa is also eyed by the club for the Club World Cup. ---------------------------------------------------------

Digicel donated soccer balls to Severners United

Digicel the bigger better network, has donated 15 soccer balls to Seveners United on 06th september 2010. The official handing over of these soccer balls took place at the digicel office In port vila. While making the handing over of the balls the digicel marketing executive officer  Carissa Brown says that:  they  are very happy to do such donations like this towards the clubs and willing to help the club in future. Seveners united is in premier division last season, and during this new season they went down to first division. Again while receiving the balls, Seveners representative Spencer Noal says a big thank you to the Digicel company and continued to says that with those balls, they will try all their best to train hard and to win their place on the premier division for the next season.  Story by Albert Willy ---------------------------------------------------------

Lorry looks for goals against 08

Shepherds United Captain Lorry Thompson (Picture in White) is confident ahead of this weekend's TVL Cup third and fourth place playoffs against Spirit 08. Lorry whom is a former Tafea FC player has transferred back to his former club Shepherds United before going to work in New Zealand which saw him putting on hold his football career for quite some time. After coming back from New Zealand Lorry then captained Shepherds United in the first division last season up to the premier division this season. In the premier division Lorry has maintained his side as a force to be reckoned with by guiding Shepherds to the July's Independence Cup and recently to the third and fourth playoffs for the TVL Cup. Lorry will depend on in form striker Danny Michel to deliver goals after coming out as top scorer in the first division, and together with Coach Albert Manaroto they will look to stamp their mark in the premier division. Spirit 08 on the other hand will look to improve on their narrow lose to Tafea FC and will have teenage striker Robert Tasso to hold the reins up front. Knowing Spirit 08 coach, Carlos Buzzetti will look to improve their disappointing lose to maintain an unbeaten record against new comers Shepherds United whom they have never lost to . Port Vila Football Association has drawn up the program for this weekend's final and will see Tafea Shepherds play Spirit at 1pm and Tafea play Amical in the grand final at 3pm. ---------------------------------------------------------

Amical and Tafea book a spot in the TVL Cup finals

Amical FC and Tafea FC have both booked a spot in the Telecom Vanuatu (TVL) Cup final after respective wins over the weekend. Amical FC got away with a 2-0 win over new comers Shepherds United FC thanks to a first half Robert Yelou goal and a second half super sub Jerry Shem's goal. Shepherds had their moments in the game but failed to capitalize on their numerous chances. The game was a replay of the Independence Cup which saw Shepherds playing in their first ever final in the premier division after a huge first division success, but it was Amical whom the eventual winners were coming out with a close 3-2 win. Other semi final match saw Tafea claiming a 2-1 narrow victory over Spirit 08. Spirit got into the score sheet ahead of Tafea with a superb Robert Tasso goal but failed to keep the momentum going and saw Tafea coming from behind thanks to Francois Sakama and Silas Namatak goals at the end of the second half to steal the victory from Spirit. It was in the end experience versus youth with Tafea fielding an experienced side packed with national reps to come out and win the game for Tafea. Port Vila stadium saw again a record number of crowds packing the stadium. The Telecom Vanuatu (TVL) final will be classic with the new champions Amical FC taking on the former champions Tafea FC this Saturday at Port Vila Stadium. ---------------------------------------------------------

Vanuatu Futsal squad needs new blood

Futsal fans in Vanuatu have been calling for a reform in the national futsal squad after a disappointing OFC Futsal Championship campaign.   The fans have appealed to see the recent squad members whom have been a regular in the past years to be removed and replaced with new bloods so that Vanuatu can go back and relive the glory days like back in 1992 when Vanuatu went down to Australia 1-0 in the final.   Futsal fans have been bombarding Vanuafoot Radio Talkback Show last with strong messages of a reform in the futsal squad citing that the current players lack the flare to score goals.   A concerned caller from Malekula Island said that the recent selection of the national squad was unfair because it had all the players from the Port Vila Futsal League and then ignored the other league players.   Most calls in called for a younger squad and has asked Vanuatu Football Federation to in the future select a fair and just squad that will produce good results.    Vanuatu came 4th in this year's OFC Futsal Championship in Fiji and is the worst ever result for Vanuatu.   The only young blood in the recent squad was Nemani Roqara from Erakor Village which one caller insists that VFF should make him an example to other young players and recruit more young players like Nemani.   Story by RN ---------------------------------------------------------

OFC refs set for World Cup

Fijian referee Finau Vulivuli and her two assistants have earned the right to officiate at the U-17 Women's World Cup, kicking off in Trinidad and Tobago on Monday. From left, Jacqui Stephenson, Finau Vulivuli and Lata Tuifutuna after passing the fitness test. Photo: Vanuafoot Media The Savusavu-based school teacher passed a fitness test in Trinidad on Friday and will now head an OFC trio, which also includes assistant referees Jacqui Stephenson from New Zealand and Tonga's Lata Tuifutuna, in representing Oceania at the event. Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) Referees Director Chandra Segran is delighted by the news of the trio passing their tests. He says Vulivuli is now a step closer to achieving her ultimate goal - to officiate at next year's FIFA Women's World Cup in Germany. "Fiji FA is proud of the achievements of Finau Vulivuli," Segran says. "At a young age she has progressed well. We were confident all along that she would pass this fitness test and officiate at the U-17 Women's World Cup. "This is yet another stepping stone towards her dream of making it to Germany. I would like to wish her all the best and hope that she continues to progress. "The U-17 Women's World Cup starts next week and we will be keeping a close eye on her. But we are confident she will excel at this event," Segran says. Fiji FA Chief Executive Officer Bob Kumar echoes those sentiments. "Our referees continue to put Fiji's name on top," he says. "Just recently, we had Ravinesh Kumar at the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore and now Finau has passed the fitness test to officiate at this U-17 event. "We are proud of her achievements and this goes to show that our development programmes are right on track." The referee trio are not Oceania's only representatives at the event. New Zealand's Young Football Ferns are also flying the flag for OFC and play their first game against Venezuela in Trinidad on Tuesday at 11am (NZT). Match coverage is live on New Zealand channel Sky Sport 1 from 10.45am. Story courtesy of Fiji Media. Photo courtesy of Vanuafoot Media. ---------------------------------------------------------

TVL Cup semi finals expecting much fireworks

Port Vila Football Association TVL Cup semi finals will see Amical FC take on Shepherds United FC and Tafea FC play Spirit 08 FC. Amical booked their spot with a 4-2 thrashing of Tafea FC in front of several hundred Tafea FC diehard fans in the Port Vila Municipal Stadium on Tuesday 2 September and therefore coming top in their group to take on runners up in group 2 Shepherds FC. Shepherds on the other hand had to wait for a decider between Tupuji Imere and Yatel FC. The Tupuji and Yatel game unfortunately for Yatel who needed a 3-0 win or more to advance to the semi finals, went down to a more superior Tupuji side 5-nil to pave way for Shepherds to step up and claim the runners up position. This is the second time Amical will get to play Shepherds United this season. Group 2 leaders Spirit 08 were the only club marching into the semi finals without a defeat in their hands and now have the daunting task of playing the former champions Tafea FC whom have slowly been developing a promising young side. Tafea FC have recorded their only lose in the tournament to a now well oiled machine, Amical FC whom had earlier recorded a surprise defeat to new comers Ifira Black Birds FC.   This Saturdays TVL Cup semi final Program: Amical vs Shepherds United at 1pm and Tafea vs Spirit 08 at 3pm at Port Vila Stadium. ---------------------------------------------------------

Football world unites in fair play

Once more, FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter is urging footballers around the world to show fair play and respect, as FIFA is holding its 14th annual FIFA Fair Play Days during the official matchdays from September 3 to 7. FIFA recognises the fundamental role of fair play and respect in sport and the need to apply them to all sporting activities, including children's activities. "Children need strong values to grow up with and football, being a team sport, makes them realise how essential discipline, respect, team spirit and fair play are for the game and for life," President Blatter says. "FIFA's Fair Play campaign involves much more than simply promoting fair play on the pitch during a competition. FIFA is committed to encouraging fair play in society too, beginning with our future – with children." The fair play principles of world football's governing body will be the focus of attention once again over the coming days in dozens of stadiums around the world in the race to score points in national and international games. "I expect players, officials and fans to set a perfect example of fair play," Blatter emphasises. He says it is even more important in vital matches such as these to uphold the values of fair play. "These matches must epitomise fair play. They should encapsulate the sporting, moral and ethical principles for which FIFA has always stood and leave a lasting impression." In Europe, UEFA will join FIFA in promoting the Fair Play Days in official games via its "Respect" campaign. These are the 14th annual FIFA Fair Play Days to be celebrated since their introduction in 1997. They have come to feature prominently on the international match calendar in the past few years. Many associations around the world have taken advantage of FIFA's annual support to promote fair play on and off the pitch and activities have been held in dozens of countries around the world, from grassroots to top-flight football and in many community-based projects. Story and photo courtesy of FIFA. For more on the world game visit www.fifa.com ---------------------------------------------------------