They have played twelve matches so far in this brand new professional league in Oceania. This Tuesday, the New Caledonians Germain Haewegene and Joe Athale were in Suva, the capital of Fiji, for their match against the New Zealanders from South United. The two teams ended the game in a three-all draw.
“For a first, it’s a league with a good level,” admitted Germain Haewegene. “We have seen that it is difficult for us to start the championship given the matches we have played before. But now, we are coming to the end and we see that tensions are rising and all teams want to earn points in order to rank well before the playoffs.”
A hat-trick by Haewegene
Tahiti United is sixth out of eight in this championship that brings together opponents from the South Pacific. Last Saturday, the club dominated the Solomon Kings 5-1 with a performance from the Cagous, especially the hat-trick by the former AS Magenta striker.
“Coming back from Mexico with the New Caledonian national team, it was nice to see my colleagues again. It boosted my confidence a bit: that’s the level, we have to give our best. And then this hat-trick, I did it. And it’s not Germain who scores, it’s Tahiti United who scores,” said Haewegene.
Among the top four
Athale, also a scorer against the Kings, ranks fifth in the best assist providers of the Pro League. He left the national level, in mainland France, to join Tahiti United. “That’s what I experienced down there: it’s like it’s the daily routine, the work. When you sign a pro contract, you have to take responsibility for your job. For me, it’s the same thing here,” shared Joe Athale.
The next matches will take place this Friday against the Vanuatu United FC, second to last in the standings, and next Tuesday against South Melbourne FC. Finishing among the top four this season is essential to compete in the playoffs.
