IF you think North American football isn’t on par with New Zealand, just ask Azmat Begg of the Labasa Lions Masters.
The veteran goalkeeper pulled a bizarre stunt in the semifinal shootout against Nasinu North American Masters, faking an injury in a desperate bid to rattle the opposition.
But the North Americans didn’t need help holding their own.
They played brisk, entertaining football that left the Lions chasing shadows.
What made the defeat sting more was the pedigree in Labasa’s ranks.
Their lineup included some of Fiji’s most recognized names: Taniela Waqa, Simione Tamanisau, Peni Erenio, Sumeet Shankaran, Lorima Dau, Afraz Bhamji, and Valerio Nawatu.
The Lions started well, racing to a two-goal lead in the first half. Yet Nasinu clawed back to 2-2, forcing penalties.
Shootout Drama
The shootout swung back and forth into golden-goal stage.
That’s when Begg, having earlier asked to be substituted only to be denied under competition rules, decided to take matters into his own hands.
He went down theatrically, clutching at an imaginary injury in full view of the crowd.
Even the live commentator couldn’t stay silent, calling him out: “Begg, you’re better than that. No.”
Moments later, Lorima Dau stepped into goal and produced the decisive save that sealed the Lions’ win.
For a team that invested heavily to travel to the Australia International Masters Championship, Nasinu deserved better than to have the spotlight stolen by sideshows.
Players like Chris Singh, Desmond Krishan, Renald Lakhan, Jasvindar Singh, Mukthar Buksh and the team can hold their heads high for displaying outstanding performance throughout the tournament.
Fair Play First
Football is built on fair play. When integrity gives way to theatrics, the game suffers.
Begg, who once wore Suva and Labasa colours with pride, should have known better.
Winning through deceit isn’t winning at all and it certainly isn’t worth celebrating.
But then again, this is Fiji football.
