Ex- Fijian football defender dies

The Fiji football fraternity is mourning the death of former Fiji and Nadi football defender Inosi Tora. According to Nadi Legends cofounder and team-mate Roland Mar, the tough central defender passed away last Saturday at the Nadi Hospital after a short illness. “He’ll always be remembered for being a tough defender and always committed to Nadi and Fiji,” Mar said.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

Tora came from a respected sporting family in the village of Namotomoto in Nadi. He started his football career with the Tanoa Football Club.

“We played together for Tanoa FC and Nadi. He first played for Nadi in 1977 and was part of the team that won the inaugural Battle of the Giants and the National League in 1978,” Mar said.

He was a household name in the 1980s known renowned for his rugged style of play and his no fear attitude.

Tora played for Nadi along with star striker Rusiate Waqan, goalkeeper Savenaca Waqa, Sosiceni Kaitani, Save Lutumailagi, Joeli Lutumailagi, Peter Dean, Emasi ‘Bacardi’ Koroi, Manu Pokar, Marika Ravula, Navneeda Goundar and Henry Dyer.

The highlight of his career was in 1985 when he captained and scored a goal for the national football team that beat English Premier League club Newcastle United 3-0.

Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel acknowledged Tora’s contribution to football in the country.

“It’s a huge loss. He has been a great footballer and an inspirational leader of his time.”

Fiji FA chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf said Tora would be always remembered for his passion and commitment to football.

“Indeed it is a sad loss for Fiji Football as he contributed a lot to the country during his playing career, His daughters also played for the national women’s team, “said Yusuf.

Tora attended St Mary’s Primary School and Xavier College in Ba. He is survived by his wife Luisa Salele, seven children and nine grandchildren.

The funeral is set for Thursday with the 10am church service at the St Michael’s Parish in Nadi.