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Arafura Games History Made by a Kick of a Football

Tue, May 12 2009

A young Indonesian has made Arafura Games football history with a goal from the opening kick-off.

The kick by Aceh captain, Hendra Yani soared high then dropped sharply into the net over the head of the surprised NT 16’s goalkeeper… and equally surprised players, officials and spectators.

The 18-year-old Yani was the only person who didn’t seem surprised. He later told the Aceh team manager: “It was a deliberate attempt to score. It was not a fluke.”

The one-nil lead obtained by Aceh in the first few seconds lasted into the second half before NT equalised. Aceh seemed certain to win when they led 2-1 into extra time but NT netted from a last minute corner to force a draw.

Officials said later that Yani’s goal from the opening kick-off was the first in Arafura Games and the first most had seen at any level of the code.

For more information go to www.arafuragames.nt.gov.au.

Gail Liston (08) 8920 5536 or 0407 207 335.