Purrfect’ win to Panthers against Lions
Purrfect’ win to Panthers against Lions in ethnic footy league "
In a new look 7-aside competition, the big cats
gave a roaring performance at this weekend's New Zealand
Communities Football Cup (NZCFC) final, held at Papakura's
McLennan Park, Papakura FC and Pulman Lodge.
Over the
weekend at the 11th annual tournament, the Palestinian
Panthers and Czech Lions gave spectators a claw biting
finish after drawing 0-0 after extra time.
The two sides
stood shoulder-to-shoulder and cheered each other on during
the penalty shootout, with the final score 4-2 to the
Panthers.
The win secured the Panthers $1,500 prize money
and an automatic place in the 2020 tournament.
Other teams must win regional ethnic football tournaments or compete via invitation of NZCFC. The tournament has been dominated for the past ten years by Somalia Stars from Wellington and Refugee Youth Action Network of Auckland.
Tournament
newcomers NZ South Africa beat seasoned NZCFC competitors
Ireland 3-1 in a hard-fought clash to take the Plate
home.
NZ South Africa team member Josh Jeftha was awarded
the MVP trophy, the 17-year old stood-out throughout the
tournament with some fine performances.
Deputy
Commissioner Wally Haumaha attended the tournament and was
impressed with the ethnic diversity of the teams.
“The
tournament provides a fantastic opportunity to recruit from
diverse communities. Last week, our first Afghani woman
graduated as a Constable and will be a great asset to
Police,” he said.
“Like many others who have joined,
she has faced challenges and overcome them with strength and
tenacity.”
NZCFC uses football to promote positive social outcomes such as social inclusion, health and wellbeing of families and communities, which the Panthers and Lions demonstrated during the penalty shootout.
It is growing its women's and youth football tournaments to increase its reach and holds a youth football clinic to encourage students to participate in football and other positive socially interactive activities, while also promoting the White Ribbon campaign.
NZCFC wishes to thank; Auckland Council; Lion Foundation; New Zealand Community Trust; Four Winds; New Zealand Football; Perennial Turf and Sports, the Official Ball Supplier and Aotearoa Football
For teams wanting to follow the
tournament and compete next year https://www.facebook.com/search/posts/?q=nzcfc&epa=SERP_TAB
Join
the team that makes the difference https://www.newcops.co.nz
Issued by Police Media Centre
ENDS