PORT VILA: The Vanuatu club champions Tafea FC did not even break a sweat as they carried away the season opening Sunrice Cup after finalist Shepherds United were unable to pay an outstanding fine enforced by the Port Vila Football League a day before the final last weekend.

The fine arose from their semi-final win over Yatel while Tafea easily overcame tournament surprise packets Erakor in their semi tie.

After watching Golden Star beat Ifira for the U-20 Sunrice opening Cup in a penalty shoot out, the packed in spectators at Port Vila municipal stadium were told there would not be a final as the game had been forfeited and the Cup handed to Tafea.