The cyclone-interrupted Australian Rules Oceania Cup was played in Suva yesterday with the grand final taking place between Fiji and Nauru.
The best young players from five Pacific countries - Fiji, Nauru, Vanuatu, Tonga and Solomon Islands - are taking part in the tournament.
The Australian Football League’s development manager, Andrew Cadzow, has told Radio Australia’s Pacific Beat players bunkered down during Cyclone Evan - the biggest cyclone to sweep past the island nation in 20 years
“We were quite fortunate it wasn’t too bad...,” he said.
“Fortunately enough with the support of the Suva City Council we played all day yesterday.
He says the last day of action will go ahead today as planned, with Fiji and Nauru playing off in the grand final.
“Yesterday (Wednesday), Vanuatu and Solomons played for the third and fourth,” he said.
“Solomons snuck over the line for a very good win - probably the best game of the carnival so far.
“So, today (yesterday) the Solomons and Tonga are just going to have the curtain raiser so they get one more game of football.”
Mr Cadzow says despite the threat of natural disasters, Suva is still a “good central spot” for the Cup to be held.
“Cyclone season is probably sometimes a little bit to be worried about but it’s this time when all the Pacific countries play footy,” he said.
“So it’ll certainly be on the calendar from now on on.
“It’s in its fourth year now and going better than ever and we’re looking forward to bigger and better next year.”
Mr Cadzow says Oceania Cup players may also have a shot at playing for Australian teams.
“There’s probably half a dozen there who will be looked at very strongly for the AFL clubs that may arrive in town in April next year,” he said.
Result of the final match was not immediately
available before this edition went to press.
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