Tama Fasavalu is a Samoan former international footballer who played in New Zealand for Central United as a defender. On May 3, 2012, Fasavalu was indefinitely suspended from the sport by the Auckland Football Federation after striking a referee and breaking his jaw during a match.[1]

Tama Fasavalu
Personal information
Date of birth 07 03 1976
Place of birth Samoa
Height 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
Position(s) Striker
Team information
Current team
Central United
Number 19
Youth career
1989–1997 vikings fc
2004 Tuanaimoto Breeze
Central United
International career
Years Team Apps (Gls)
2002– Samoa 3 (2)
‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 29 April 2010

Career

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Club career

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Fasavalu began his career in Samoa with Kiwi and Tuanaimoto Breeze, before moving to Central United in 2005. He subsequently moved to New Zealand second division Manukau City.

On 25 April 2012 while playing for Manukau City in a match against Tauranga City, Fasavalu was issued a second yellow card at the 79th minute, and subsequently struck referee Len Gattsche in the jaw, breaking it in three places and requiring surgery.[1][2] Subsequently, Fasavalu was banned from the sport, fined, and criminally charged with wounding with intent to injure.[1][3]

International career

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Fasavalu has played at international level for Samoa.

Career statistics

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International goals

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# Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1. 10 May 2004 National Soccer Stadium, Apia, Samoa   American Samoa 4–0 Win 2006 FIFA World Cup Qual.
2. 10 May 2004 National Soccer Stadium, Apia, Samoa   American Samoa 4–0 Win 2006 FIFA World Cup Qual.
Correct as of 29 April 2010

References

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  1. ^ a b c Amelia Wade (May 4, 2012). "$1000 fine and indefinite suspension for soccer player who broke ref's jaw". New Zealand Herald. Retrieved May 25, 2012.
  2. ^ "Footballer banned from game indefinitely". May 5, 2012.
  3. ^ "Man accused of referee assault back in court". New Zealand Herald. May 23, 2012. Retrieved May 25, 2012.
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