Youths impress Muta

Sports

By PARKER TAMBUA
VETERAN captain David Muta says he is pleased with the young players who have come through the Hekari United system and are gaining exposure in the Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League.
Muta told The National after their 3-0 win over Star Mountain on Saturday that debutant Solomon Rani and youngster Freddy Kepo were among other young players who performed strongly in the round-one clash.
The 32-year-old, who is understood to be the only remaining foundation player of the club since 2006, said the younger players in the team were stepping up and that the future looked promising for Hekari.
“I am happy for Solomon. It was great to see him play well in his first game,” the midfielder said of the 18-year old.
“Youngest of the Kepo brothers, Freddy put in a strong performance as well.
“He only played few games last season and has shown a lot of positives today.
“It’s good to try our young boys out, let them have a feel of playing at this level and gain from it.”
Hekari owner Vonnie Kapi Natto said veterans Lesley Kalai (goalkeeper), Koriak Upaiga (defender) and Muta were pillars of the team.
Kapo Natto said the trio were playing an important role in the team by sharing their experiences with the younger players, instilling discipline and maintaining team culture.
“To have these senior players around is a blessing for the team,” she said.