WHILE Fiji’s focus is on the Extra Bula FC, a special Fijian talent is making waves for another OFC Pro League club and that is none other than Fiji international Ratu Tevita Waranaivalu who is a key figure for Tahiti United.
It’s no doubt the Rewa football player is finding his form with the Tahitians given his years of experience in the sport.
Waranaivalu delivered a solid and industrious performance for Tahiti United FC in their 2–2 draw against Vanuatu United FC in Papua New Guinea over the weekend and although he did not score, his presence in midfield was crucial in securing his team’s second point of the season.
Operating as an attacking midfielder, the 30-year-old player was instrumental in Tahiti’s early dominance, which led to Germain Haewegene’s opening goal in the 27th minute.
Despite the chaotic nature of the first half, Waranaivalu’s composure helped his side maintain their lead twice before late equalisers from Vanuatu.
Upon the team’s arrival, Waranaivalu expressed his joy at returning to PNG.
“For me this (PNG) has been my home away from home. I’ve been here so many times, it’s great to be back,” he said.
The 2–2 draw against Vanuatu reflects Waranaivalu’s earlier comments about the need to perfect their finishing.
“Our finishing, we’ve been playing but finishing is still an area of concern, but we’ll leave that to the coaching staff,” he added. With the team playing away from home, the Fijian international is calling on Tahitian supporters in PNG to come out in numbers and back the team.
As the sole Fijian professional playing for a foreign-based club in this league, Waranaivalu’s consistent playing time is seen as a significant success for the development of Fijian football.
