Special IDC win for Manu – FBC News
The FMF Inter District Championship win by Stratum Construction Rewa yesterday was a special one for its coach, Priyant Manu. It was Manu’s first IDC win and to do it at Fiji’s home of football was priceless. The Rewa mentor also says they fell short in the Fiji FACT and Battle of the Giants this year but to finally deliver in the IDC final is sweet. Article continues after advertisement “This is my first tournament win though I won CVC but this is first IDC and winning it here at Govind Park is really special because of the crowd here it was tough but we overcome it.” He says coaches may have plans but players deserve all the accolades because they actually do the work. Manu goes on to say that Rewa FA President Nazeel Buksh and his team really looked after the players welfare and thanked them for their assistance. Rewa won the IDC trophy and $25,000 after beating RC Manubhai Ba at 4R Stadium 1-nil in the final yesterday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
World Cup qualifying: Can mournful Scotland rouse themselves for finale?
When McTominay smashed in Scotland’s second six minutes before the end, he ran away with the nonchalance of a man who was adding a cherry on top of a rich performance instead of settling nerves at the end of a massively fractious game. In scoring the 13th goal of his international career, McTominay displayed a cool that belied the stress, but it didn’t last and nor did it deserve to last. Belarus had more attempts on Scotland’s goal than Scotland had on theirs – and when Hleb Kuchko nipped in ahead of Robertson to make it 2-1, it was deserved. You could argue that they deserved more. A draw would have been a fairer outcome. An away win would not have been a robbery. Central to the deal when you come to Hampden is the possibility of palpitations, dizziness and nausea – and so it was again on Sunday. Some of the chat leading up to this game involved the gallows humour so close to the heart of most members of the Tartan Army. Having put themselves into a highly promising position, with seven points from nine, including a miraculous escape against the Greeks, the fatalists spoke of how typical it would be if Scotland struggled against the weakest team in the group. This was, in many ways, a continuation of the fretfulness of Thursday, but against an opponent that had only a scintilla of Greece’s ability. Belarus are point-less and goalless in the campaign. Nobody really thought this would turn into such a horrible experience, but they spoke about the possibility nonetheless, teased themselves with the potential horror of it all.
Luke Littler storms to first World Grand Prix title after beating Luke Humphries
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Luke Littler swept aside Luke Humphries to win a first World Grand Prix title in Leicester. Humphries had looked the more impressive in making it through to the final, but Littler was superb in the clutch moments as he raced to a 6-1 victory. “Very happy to tick it off,” said the 18-year-old, who revealed he will play in the World Youth Championship on Monday. “It’s not the easiest tournament to win. This week has been so tough, but now I’ve picked the trophy up it’s one I can tick off and there’s not many left.” The match was closer than the scoreline suggested but Littler was flawless in deciding legs, winning each of the first four sets from 2-2. In the first leg of the third set, he came agonisingly close to a rare nine-dart finish in the format but missed his final dart at bullseye. In the fourth set, Humphries roused himself from 2-0 down with two big checkouts only for Littler to come up trumps again in the decider, leaving the world number one able only to smile and shake his head. A 154 checkout from Humphries gave him the fifth set and hopes of at least making it competitive, but Littler responded superbly and dominated the final two sets. On his precision when it counted, the teenager said: “That’s what I’ve learned from the past in the match play. I’ve got to perform the big out shots, the big scores when Luke does put me under pressure. “I think I played very well tonight. Luke was always behind me, I couldn’t step off the gas. I’m very happy to win.” Humphries was disappointed by his own display, adding: “He’s so clinical and the first four sets I missed darts to get in. Double 16 was my friend for the last three years and tonight it wasn’t. “When I was 4-0 down, I just wanted to give the crowd something. It’s hard to take, it’s disappointing because I felt like I was going to give him a lot better game than I did. Fair play to him, he was really good.” PA
First IDC win for Rewa players and officials – FBC News
The 2025 FMF Inter District Championship win yesterday at 4R Stadium Govind Park Ba by Stratum Construction Rewa was the first for all its players and officials. Rewa defeated RC Manubhai Ba 1-nil in the final. The Delta Tigers, last won the IDC in 2010 with the likes of Marika Rodu, Epeli Saukuru, Archie Watkins, and James Naka. Article continues after advertisement It was a sepcial win for everyone especially veteran Tevita Waranivalu yesterday. Waranivalu who was injured in the last quarter of the final yesterday has now done it all for Rewa. “For me this is my first IDC title, the last IDC Rewa won was in 2010 and I was in form four, that time I was in form four after that then I started playing for Rewa in form five and then lifted BOG, Fiji FACT, CVC,few League titles and this is my first IDC.” It was the sixth IDC final clash between Rewa and Ba in the 87-year history of the tournament. Rakiraki won the Senior title and Tavua took home the Premier IDC trophies. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Steve Clarke angered by lacklustre Scotland despite World Cup qualifying win over Belarus
It’s not every day Scotland are booed off after winning a match which puts them to within two games of automatic qualification for a World Cup, but such are the level of expectation set by Clarke’s team. While the Scots weren’t shooting the lights out in attack, they also allowed Belarus to be comfortable for large parts of the game. The fact they had 10 shots more than Scotland is a huge cause for concern. “At half-time the manager came in but he was absolutely furious with us,” said defender Scott McKenna. “We didn’t win any first balls, didn’t win any second balls either. Belarus probably looked more dangerous than us over the 90 minutes.” Despite the fury, self-reflection and pain, Scotland are still in a strong position. An away game in Athens against a Greece team who can no longer catch them, and then a Hampden showdown against Denmark next month lies in wait. Everyone from the Scotland camp who spoke acknowledged what they’ve produced over the past week will not get the job done, but there is a belief that they have it in them to find solutions. Somehow. “We’ve had some great moments, and some quite disappointing moments,” said Clarke. “What we are is quite resilient, we can come back from a down. “I’m confident in this group of players, that when it comes to the crunch we’ll be ready.”
Steve Clarke pulls no punches despite slender Scotland win: ‘Really disappointed’
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Steve Clarke admits Scotland turned in a “head-scratcher” of a performance in their 2-1 World Cup qualifying win over Belarus at Hampden Park. It was a momentous night for Clarke as he took charge of the national side for a record-breaking 72nd time, and it looked to be all positive when striker Che Adams scored after 15 minutes but the home side failed to kick on. Carlos Alos’ side had a goal disallowed in the second half for a foul on Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay in the build-up before the Napoli star struck in the 84th minute with a finish from 10 yards but Belarus substitute Hleb Kuchko’s strike late in added time brought more nerves back to the unimpressed Tartan Army and some boos were heard at full-time. Nevertheless, home wins over Greece and Belarus in the October double-header mean the Scots have 10 points from 12 as they prepare to travel to Greece and host Denmark next month to conclude the quick-fire qualification campaign. However, Clarke said: “I’m really disappointed – really, really disappointed. It’s possibly as disappointed as I’ve been over the whole 72 games. We just didn’t turn up. “But before I go down that route, and you start asking me questions about why I’m feeling like that, it’s also to point out that performances don’t get you qualification. And tonight was certainly not a performance. “But we got three points and that’s six points from the double-header so we’re really pleased about that, as everyone with a Scottish connection will be. “But the performance was way below par. It’s a head-scratcher. But I’ll go away, I’ll have a look, and we’ll analyse it. We’ll look at what we have to do better and how we can be more cohesive as a team without the ball. And how we have to be better as a team when we have possession. “I’ve told them that in the dressing room, so they know what my feelings are. But I’ve got a great faith in them and I trust them absolutely. And I know that next month they’ll be a different animal.” Asked If nerves had played a part, the former Reading, West Brom and Kilmarnock boss said: “They can’t be nervous. Why would they be nervous? Most of them have played in big games before. “I don’t think you can blame nerves. If it’s nerves, I think I’ll need to speak to the doctor and see if he can find me some tablets to give them.” Despite another three points towards the 2026 finals in North America next summer, the Tartan Army vented their frustrations at the end of the game. Clarke said: “That seems to be the way of the modern game. Everything now is instant. Everyone has an opinion in the first minute of the game, the 10th minute of the game, the 20th. “Everyone has a different opinion depending on how the game flows. “If the fans were disappointed with the performance tonight, they should take a little comfort in the fact the head coach was also disappointed.”
Michael O’Neill: The numbers behind his century of Northern Ireland games
Of the 94 players used by O’Neill, 63 were born in Northern Ireland, while 31 qualified through eligibility. He has handed debuts to 49 players, the last of which was Jamie McDonnell, who won his first cap off the bench in Germany in September. Across the two spells, 14 players have been handed the captain’s armband by O’Neill. Davis’ importance to Northern Ireland is evident in the 61 times he wore the armband, and Jonny Evans is the only other player to break double figures. Since the pair retired, O’Neill has rotated the captaincy around a number of his young squad, and this can be seen that Trai Hume is next on the list with six, while Shea Charles and Conor Bradley both have led Northern Ireland three times each.
Fiji basketball teams ready for battle after itatau ceremony – FBC News
Fiji Men’s and Women’s Basketball team members with Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru. [Photo Credit: Ministry of Youth and Sports] The Fiji Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams have presented their itatau to the Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, ahead of their departure for the Oceania Melanesian Cup in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The presentation took place earlier this week at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, where Minister Saukuru commended the athletes for their commitment and dedication to flying Fiji’s flag high on the international stage. “I have been told that the Oceania Melanesian Cup in Honiara, Solomon Islands is a qualifying tournament for the next South Pacific Games in Tahiti, and I am confident that you will represent Fiji with pride and determination,” said the Minister. Article continues after advertisement Minister Saukuru also conveyed the nation’s support and well-wishes to the teams as they prepare to take on the region’s best in a high-stakes competition. “As you are about to depart our shores on the 12th of this month, on behalf of the government and the people of Fiji, I wish you all the very best and remember that we will rally behind you and cheer you on.” Fiji Basketball Women’s Head Coach Saula Koroi acknowledged the Minister’s continuous support and praised the Ministry’s commitment to uplifting national teams in all sporting disciplines. Both the Men’s and Women’s national basketball squads are flying out of the country today to compete in the regional tournament, which serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti. The Oceania Melanesian Cup is set to bring together top teams from the region, and Team Fiji is aiming to secure qualification and continue building momentum on the international stage. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Scotland v Belarus live: Latest score and goal updates from crucial World Cup qualifier
GOAL! Scotland 1-1 Belarus (Malashevich, 63′) Moments after Scotland thought they had a penalty, BELARUS ARE LEVEL! Will Castle12 October 2025 18:23 NO PENALTY! Scotland 1-0 Belarus 62 mins: The referee watches it over, and over, and over again… but he makes his mind up. It is handball – but AGAINST Che Adams in the build-up! Will Castle12 October 2025 18:21 Scotland 1-0 Belarus 59 mins: Scotland have a real case for a penalty here! Adams gets into the box and is under pressure from a Belarus body, who ends up going down and swiping an arm at the ball inside the area. It’s pretty bewildering, and VAR are taking their sweet over this. And now, the referee is off to the monitor… Will Castle12 October 2025 18:20 Scotland 1-0 Belarus 57 mins: This time its Lapoukov who nearly encounters disaster – racing out of his box to deal with a forward ball – but manages to get out of trouble and spark a counter-attack. Belarus work it forward and try to get an effort away, but it’s deflected and Gunn gets across to prevent the corner. Will Castle12 October 2025 18:18 Scotland 1-0 Belarus 54 mins: SAVE! Clean hit by McGinn from the edge of the area but Lapoukhov is equal to it, getting low to parry away. Will Castle12 October 2025 18:14 Scotland 1-0 Belarus 52 mins: Gannon-Doak nearly runs into trouble in his own half, but he dances out of a sticky situation and sparks a Scotland attack. It’s played across the park to Robertson who ends up in a crossing position. It’s high and deep, just about finding Gannon-Doak whose blocked knock-back finds its way to Gilmour on the edge of the box. The Napoli midfielder is encouraged to shoot but fires over. Will Castle12 October 2025 18:14 Scotland 1-0 Belarus 48 mins: McTominay dribbles towards the edge of the box and fires goalwards, forcing a stop out of the keeper. Lapoukhov spilt it just a tad but luckily for Belarus, the ball didn’t go far from his grasp. Will Castle12 October 2025 18:08 Scotland 1-0 Belarus 47 mins: McGinn slips a pass for Che Adams to chase and the Belarus defence just stand still, assuming the ball will go out. It doesn’t, Adams gets there and fires a ball across, but the chance comes to nothing. Strange one nonetheless. Will Castle12 October 2025 18:07 BACK UNDERWAY! Scotland 1-0 Belarus And we’re off again! No changes for either side. Scotland will no doubt try to put this to bed as quickly as possible. Will Castle12 October 2025 18:05 The teams are back out Second half coming up, folks. Will Castle12 October 2025 18:04
Kaizer Chiefs fixtures in full
Kaizer Chiefs have officially parted ways with Nasreddine Nabi, and the timing seems tricky. The Tunisian’s sudden exit gave Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze the hot seat to share. Let’s look at how the duo’s tenure will start this demanding month. DEMANDING MONTH FOR KAIZER CHIEFS COACHES It’s been a mixed start in the Betway Premiership, with four wins, three draws, and one loss, enough to stay in the chase behind Mamelodi Sundowns, Sekhukhune United, and Orlando Pirates. But the Carling Knockout exit to Stellenbosch FC in the last 16 left fans very annoyed. Amakhosi now turn their attention to the CAF Confederation Cup, where a two-legged battle against AS Simba could seal their spot in the group stage. Off the pitch, there’s reason for optimism. New signings Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman are now eligible to play after the long transfer dispute with Cape Town Spurs, while Etiosa Ighodaro, Lebohang Maboe, and Siphesihle Ndlovu are all nearing returns from injury. The depth boost comes at a better time for Youssef and Kaze. OCTOBER FIXTURES Saturday, 19 October, 15:00 AS Simba (away) Stade TP Mazembe, Lubumbashi (Democratic Republic of Congo) CAF Confederation Cup. Wednesday, 22 October, 19:30 Siwelele FC (home) FNB Stadium, Johannesburg Betway Premiership Sunday, 25 October, 15:00 AS Simba (home) FNB Stadium, Johannesburg CAF Confederation Cup Friday, 31 October, 19:30 Durban City (away)Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban Betway Premiership. Also read: Qualifications and experience: New Kaizer Chiefs coaches