Suva to lose key players?
The Suva Football Association is in danger of losing several of their top players to other districts this month. Suva FA this week appointed former defender Intiaz Khan as head coach, a move that raised a few eyebrows given his unimpressive coaching record at the top level. But the former FUTSAL man could take charge of a depleted side at the end of the Fiji Football Association’s January Transfer Window.
Sources have told SUNsports that Suva FA executives are caught in an off-the-field fight to retain their top players.
Arch rivals Rewa Football is said to be among the top suitors, although Ba and Nasinu have also shown interest in certain players.
In this column, SUNsports looks at all the latest news and gossip on players’ movement.
SIMIONE TAMANISAU: Suva to Rewa
The veteran goalkeeper continues to be a must-have for districts looking for stability and seniority in defence – even at 36-years of age.
The Delta Tigers are desperately after the services of one of their favourite sons. Tamanisau has captained Rewa to some of their most memorable victories in the past and is apparently keen on the move.
He sees it as a much better way to end his illustrious football career and perhaps take up coaching after retirement. However, there could be some complications regarding the transfer, since Tamanaisau is a member of the Fiji Police side that plays in Suva’s Local League competition. Rewa, who is also in the hunt for a new
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coach, has big plans for the new season. The Southerners ended last season’s Vodafone Premier League competition in 6th place, 18 points behind leaders Lautoka. Aside from the Fiji FACT win, the team gave their die-hard fans little to celebrate last season.
The Rewa executives are supposedly ready to do whatever it takes to get the team competing at the top again, and Tamanisau could prove to be an important signing.
MADHWAN GOUNDER: Suva to Rewa
The midfielder is said to be returning to Rewa after a year with Suva.
Gounder, a Rakiraki native, got his big break with Suva in 2014 after impressive displays with Tailevu/Naitasiri in the Premier Division.
He later joined Rewa and returned to Suva in January, last year. Rewa are keen on adding the hardworking midfielder- who has a knack for delivering killer passes that have resulted in crucial goals- to their squad.
The problem? Gounder is a special constable and plays for the Police team in Suva’s Local League competition – just like Tamanisau.
TEVITA WARANIVALU: Suva to Rewa
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Southern giants Suva and Rewa have played some fiery matches in the past.
The intense rivalry dates back decades and originates from passionate fans and players who hate losing to each other.
This off-field transfer battle is no different from the on-field encounters of the past and will likely go to the wire.
Rewa officials are also keen on enterprising forward Waranivalu, who Suva signed from them last year to bolster their attack.
But again, Waranivalu is also a member of the Police team, so the transfer is far from being confirmed.
BRUCE HUGHES: Suva to Rewa
Surprise, Surprise! Rewa are said to be keen on yet another Suva player.
Hughes was an important member of the Suva team last season, helping them reach the Inter-district Championship and Battle of the Giants finals.
The speedy striker, who also enjoys physical battles with opposition defenders, is said to be the perfect fit for Rewa’s attacking plans this season.
Keep a close eye on this one.
LAISENIA RAURA: Suva to Ba
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The reliable defender is said to be seeking a return to his former district.
He joined Suva in October last year along with fellow Ba man Meli Codro.
Raura was a strong physical presence in Suva’s defence during the IDC but is said to be disillusioned with life in the capital city. He is also keen on playing for Ba at next month’s OFC Champions League, the region’s top competition.
-Edited by Leone Cabenatuba