Fiji recorded its first victory in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers when it defeated Vanuatu 2-0 at Govind Park in Ba.

The hosts dominated play in all phases of the match and played with more aggression and determination with three players getting their big break in national colors.

Youngsters Tuimasi Manuca, Rajnil Chand and Alvin Singh made their debut in full national jumper and played well.

Auckland City midfielder Salesh Kumar opened the scoring for Fiji in the 7th minute of the first spell after he finished off a Malakai Tiwa freekick well, nodding the ball beyond the reach of goalie Chikau Mansale.

Kumar played a commanding role in the match and was one of the top performers for the hosts along with Waitakere United based Labasa striker Roy Krishna who time and again dazzled the 1000+ crowd with his dazzling footwork and crisp touches.

Mansale who made a couple of daring saves in the first spell was stretched off the field towards the end of the spell as he collided with Manuca and one of his own defenders and in the process fractured his right foot.

He was taken to Ba mission hospital for treatment and is expected to be transferred to Lautoka hospital for further tests and treatment.

The Vanuatu FUTSAL rep was replaced by John Presley who also featured well under the sticks having considered just one goal in the 87th minute to replacement Fiji striker Maciu Dunadamu who outran the Vanuatu defence with his speed before slotting in Fiji’s second goal.

Fiji now has 4 points while Vanuatu still has 1 point and the two sides clash in their return match next Wednesday in Port Villa.

The teams:

Fiji- Benaminio Mateinaqara, Taniela Waqa, Esava Naqeleca, Rajnil Chand, Ronil Kumar (Henry Dyer), Pita Bolaitoga (Alvin Singh), Roy Krishna, Salesh Kumar, Tuimasi Manuca (Maciu Dunadamu), Malakai Tiwa (C), Malakai Kainihewe.

Vanuatu- Chikau Mansale (John Presley), Samson Obed, Fedy Vava (C), Geoffrey Gete, Robert Tom, Seimata Chillia, David Maki, Francois Sakama (Kaltak Michell), Robert Yelou, Joseph Nimariau (Jeffrey Niminian), Jean Nako.

Fijilive

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