The two Port Vila-based sides battled it out in front of close to 8,000 fans in what were at times some very wet and muddy conditions, with both teams seeking the prestigious title of Vanuatu club champions and its spoils.
After a relatively even start Tafea took the lead just ahead of the break when Joseph Namariau rolled the ball neatly past Amicale’s goalkeeper Chickau Mansale in the 45th minute.
Amicale peppered the goal with a number of shots in the second period but Tafea’s young goalkeeper Seloni Iaruel continually denied them the equaliser. Some of their best chances came from Fenedy Masauvakalo and Joses Nawo but neither could find the back of the Tafea net and were left to rue the missed opportunities.
The trophy and winner’s cheque were presented by Vanuatu sports minister Tony Wright, a former Amicale player himself, who said it was good to see the up-and-coming talent on display during the final.
“As a former Amicale player and now Minister of Youth and Sport Development, I am very proud to see young, talented and strong players emerging in Vanuatu football,” Wright said.
“I wish Tafea all the best in the Champions League.”
This will be Tafea’s eighth appearance in a FIFA Club World Cup qualifying competition, with their best results coming in 2008 and 2005 when they finished in fourth place.
Individual awards in the 2013 TVL National Super League were also handed out following the final, with the best player going to Octav Meltecoin of Uripiv FC, and his team earning the fairplay award. Best goalkeeper went to Tafea’s Seloni Iaruel while Moise Poida took the honours for best coach.
For more on Vanuatu football go to www.vanuafoot.vu

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