Once considered underdogs, the football team from the Hahake District has defied the odds with an undefeated season that has electrified and inspired spectators in Loto-Tonga Football Centre and beyond.
Navutoka Premier Men’s team, under the coaching of Sione Talanoa Sake, says they plan to win it all but will have to face very strong opponents in the play-off rounds despite cruising their way through to the semi-final.
With a 14-game winning streak in the 2023 season Sione Talanoa Sake recalls his memory of the last time his side last lifted the TFA Major League Cup.
“Last time Navutoka held the Major League Title was 1997 which I was still playing at the time. We won the cup for 4 consecutive years which is 1994 to 1997 and that’s probably the last time Navutoka finished the round matched with and undefeated record. I still remember that our team at the time includes Veitongo’s coach, Timote Moleni.” Sione to TFA Website.
Going full force with a very talented side in the likes of Tonga U23 and U19 players mixed with experienced players such as 62 years old Lui Muavesi and Timote Maamaloa they are taking the world of men’s football by storm and with a perfect record, Sione said they’re only one game away from the big dance where Veitongo awaits their fate facing Nukuhetulu FC in the other semi final who they lost to in round 11.
“There is no secret to winning, I told the boys if they want to win this year’s title they have to be extremely fit. Now the boys have worked hard, put on sacrifices, now we are very happy that the village sees the hard work we’ve put and has fully supported us through this year’s campaign.” Sione added.
Semi-finals are set where Navutoka will face Folaha who seats in the 4th place of the table and reigning Champion, Veitongo will face Nukuhetulu who first time to sit at the second place of the point table after the round matches.
End.
