LAUTOKA’s utility Zibraaz Sahib sets a good example for other footballers in the country with his pure dedication and commitment to the game.
He was also selected the player of the tournament after playing a crucial role for Lautoka to win the 2016 Inkk Mobile Battle of the Giants tournament at Ratu Cakonau Park in Nausori on Sunday.
Sahib works for Punjas in Lautoka and had to travel back to Lautoka after their matches.
Coach Anginesh Prasad said he was happy with his dedication and commitment.
“He had to travel from Lautoka to play for the team against Labasa and then he travelled back to Lautoka on the same night as he had work commitments,” he said.
“He also travelled to Nausori again for the match against Ba. This is a true commitment and dedication from a humble footballer.
“Zibraaz is a loyal Lautoka boy and with his passion and dedication he also motivates the coaching panel as well.”
Sahib’s father Haniff Sahib also played for Lautoka when they won the Courts Inter-District Championship in 1973 after they defeated Labasa 1-0.
The 26-year-old former Natabua High School student Sahib started playing for Blues in 2008 before going overseas and in 2011 he returned to Lautoka.
In the final he was the connecting link between the defenders and the strikers in the 2-0 win over Labasa. He launched Lautoka’s attack and at times he had to fall back and play help out in defence. He assisted Mohammed Shazil Ali to score their first goal.
Sahib was shy to talk after the win but then he said he would always be loyal to Lautoka.
“It was the teamwork which made Lautoka win the tournament,” he said.
“The win was overdue for the fans to celebrate.
“We decided not to let Labasa take upper hand and score against us and we held them on and players were told to keep their cool. This is my first win for Blues which is my home team and I will continue to play for them.”
