All of Vanuatu Was in the Stands.

What a game! As a Ni Vanuatu family living here in Auckland we have been at the stadium, supporting every game that has been played here. There are not many Ni Vanuatu living in the city, with most living as seasonal workers in the small towns many hours drive from Auckland.

As we arrived on Sunday and we saw the buses with our Ni Vanuatu brothers and sisters arriving, the feeling of excitement began to build. Our hearts were bursting with pride as the boys began the game, and we were so proud to represent our country showing NZ the support we are capable of.

I invited some friends to join us and they told us they couldn't believe how amazing the Vanuatu fans were with the support, yet respectful of the other team as well.

We (the Auckland Vanuatu community) had prepared a dinner and met the team two nights previously where the coach Lars Hopp spoke of the humility and heart of our boys, which I believe is the core of our Vanuatu spirit.

My daughters were able to meet with the team and talk with them in Bislama which made the team so happy. My youngest met Azariah Soromon and Edward Roqara. During the prayer together Soroman called out to my daughter to stand with him and hold his hand for some luck.

The next day she decided to make a sign with his name on, and lo and behold, he was our key scorer in the final minutes and assisted the second goal of the game. After the game he ran over and greeted her by name with much happiness.

We are so so proud of all of our boys and for the upcoming game tomorrow, no matter the number in the stands, you know that all of Vanuatu is with you in heart and urging you on! Lets go Vanuatu!

By Amelia Lingbu (Vanuatu Diaspora based in Auckland, NZ)

Azariah Soromon with his fans, Lingbu Family.Picture by Amelia Lingbu