Refs fly flag for Kiwis

Referees Anna-Marie Keighley, Chris Kerr and Glen Lochrie will officiate in the men’s and women’s football competitions at the Games, which kick off in Nouméa tomorrow and run until September 9.The Kiwis are delighted to have been given the opportunity to control matches outside of their homeland and Keighley, one of the country’s leading female…

The Nasinu-based defender has been named skipper of the side and, despite her tender years, says she is ready to take on the responsibility.“It is an honour and privilege to lead the national side at the Pacific Games and I’m looking forward to it,” she says. “I’m still young and have a long way to…

The men’s and women’s squads both feature 17 players and Football Federation American Samoa (FFAS) president Iuli Alex Godinet says they have put in plenty of effort in the build-up to New Caledonia 2011.“We are happy with the squads and commend our CEO Tavita Taumua, his staff and the coaching staff for their hard work…

The ‘Olympics’ of the Pacific region is held once every four years and this year’s edition will involve 22 territories, 28 sports and around 3000 athletes – all looking to represent their nation with pride in the hugely-anticipated sporting festival. OFC is well represented with 11 men’s teams and nine women’s teams competing in the…

The 20-year-old is one of the brightest defensive prospects in the Oceania region and his involvement in the Vanuatu line-up will be a major assett for coach Saby Natonga, who has had to turn to a batch of young stars after being deprived of several more experienced campaigners.Kaltack, a stand out at the OFC U-20…

But he is far from expecting an easy ride against Fiji’s first-up opponents and knows the side must be at its best to secure the points.“Tahiti will be a very strong team and, since it is the first game, both sides will be out for a victory,” he says.“We have been grouped in a very…