Earlier Fiji had gone down on 11 minutes thanks to a goal from Vanuatu’s Kency Tangis, and despite wrestling their way back into the game looked destined for defeat as the sixth minute of added time approached.
But a free kick from just outside the box – on one of the last plays of the game – was all Avinesh Swamy needed to power the ball into the back of the net and rescue a point for the visitors.
Despite both sides playing their first match under a new head coach – Frank Farina for Fiji and Moise Poida for Vanuatu – the game flowed well through the first half, with Fiji ruing a number of missed opportunities on goal.
The second half remained tight and on 48 minutes Iosefo Verevou, who had only just been introduced into the game, came within inches of equalising.
His powerful effort off the left foot had the keeper beaten, but smashed against the post and out for a goal kick.
Vanuatu continued to attack with purpose and had a golden chance to seal the game in the 82nd minute when Don Masale – playing his first ever match for Vanuatu – headed wide after a cross from Francois Sakama.
But in the end there was no stopping Swamy’s late effort which made sure the game would end as a draw.
Fiji Football Association vice president and national team director Tarunesh Reddy says it was pleasing to see the team stick to the game plan for the entire match.
“Our team played really well with the structure set up by Frank Farina, and he was pleased with their performance,” Reddy says.
“We are happy with the way it went despite only getting a draw. The boys played until the final whistle,” he said.
Fiji will welcome Wellington Phoenix striker Roy Krishna into the squad for the second friendly, which will be played today at Port Vila Stadium.
“His presence in the squad will be a huge boost for our side and give the boys a bit of confidence,” Reddy adds.
“We have identified our weaknesses and gone back to the drawing board to iron out our mistakes.”
Meanwhile Vanuatu’s Poida says he is expecting an even tougher assignment in the second match.
“We know our return match is not going to be an easy one. We are expecting a difficult match,” he says.
“Fiji are very physical team, and we know they are going to come out strong and try to score.
“My boys played really well against a good Fiji side, we should have scored more goals and beaten them because we had more chances to score, but we are have worked to rectify those mistakes ahead of the second game.”
For more on Fiji football visit fijifootball.com.fj
For more on Vanuatu football visit www.vanuafoot.vu.

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