Naps to make it right
Nadi to play for those affected by pandemic
Striker Napolioni Qasevakatini is the only player in the All in One Builders/ Ezy Kool sponsored Nadi football side to have lifted the Courts Interdistrict Championship Trophy.
The 27-year- old told SUNsports on Saturday night, that during the 2014 IDC final, he scored Suva’s winning goal against Nadi. “I became the hated player among the Nadi fans that night,” Qasevakatini recalled. Now the Bavu, Nadroga, native is determined to help the Green Machine break a 19-year winless IDC jinx.
Qasevakatini was named by coach Kamal Swamy during the presentation night at Korovuto College, to be the team’s vicecaptain.
“That match in 2014 is now history for me, done and dusted,” Qasevakatini said.
“We are all set for the IDC. Discipline is very important and had been one of our concerns.
“This is the country’s prestigious football title with the $25, 000 prize-money at stake for the winner.”
Qasevakatini said players and the people of Nadi were worst affected by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This forced the closure of the Nadi International Airport, hotels, resorts and all tourism related- businesses.
“A win should be a blessing for everyone affected,” he said.
Nadi Football Association vice-president Max Chetty said five youth players would make their debut at the IDC.
They are Siliveni Lasaitora, Eshan Kumar, Abhishek Prasad, Tevita John Ravia and Mosese Nauci.
Nadi are in Group B where they face defending champions Labasa, Ba, and Navua. The IDC starts tomorrow at the ANZ Stadium in Suva.