Bua’s Timoci Tavukolo came in clutch for his side during the final of the Fiji Football Association Presidents Cup yesterday after saving a penalty kick that secured the 6-5 win on penalty kicks for his side at the Subrail Park in Labasa.
The 33-year-old keeper made the crucial save, after the match resulted in a penalty shoot out at full time.
“To be honest I was nervous every time I walked up to the goal because I knew it all depended on me whether we would win or lose,” he said.
“But firstly I just want to thank God for giving me the strength to be able to make that save.”
Tavukolo said this was his first time playing at the goal-keeper position and had feared that he would let his team down when it came to the penalty shoot out.
“I just played keeper for our past three games so I wasn’t very confident in myself when it came down to the shootout.
“I usually play at wing, but when I was asked to play at keeper I didn’t disagree despite not having any experience in the position.”
Despite missing a few saves, he said his teammates continued to encourage him which made him more determined and motivated while being under a lot of pressure.
“There’s a lot of pressure on us the keeper especially when it comes down to this, but I’m thankful to my teammates for their encouragement.”
After making the save that saw his team win the final, Tavukolo lay on the ground for a few seconds before being picked up by his teammates to celebrate.
“I just laid there shocked, I couldn’t believe that I did it.”
Team skipper Mohammed Zaid said he couldn’t be prouder of Tavukolo for making the save for the side.
“It’s because of that save we were able to win the cup, and I thank him and the boys for the hard work and dedication throughout the match.” || Bua wins Fiji FA President’s Cup || Bua
