J. K Nadi Legends were crowned the Over-50 champions of the R.C. Manubhai/APCO Coatings International Veterans Tournament after edging Lautoka Legends 5-4 in a penalty shootout yesterday.
The two sides could not be separated after 90 minutes, with the match ending 0-0 and forcing the final into a tense penalty shootout.
Lautoka made a strong start from the spot, with Dinamani Mudalliar, Rakesh Chandra, Rajnesh Kumar and Anand Sami successfully converting their penalties.
However, Lautoka’s fifth kicker, Bryna Thoman, missed a crucial attempt, leaving the door open for Nadi Legends.
Nadi’s Josefata Malakai, Michael Maharaj, Muni Nandan and Anare Tokolevu all converted their penalties to keep the shootout locked at 4-4.
With the pressure mounting, former Nadi FC striker Prem Junior stepped up to take the decisive penalty.
Junior kept his composure and found the back of the net to seal the championship for Nadi Legends.
“When I went to take that kick I was determined and I knew I was gonna score. I want to thank my team and everyone for their support,” Junior said.
