Representative soccer
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LEETON'S Sam Pirrottina and Danyon Arnold can now boast of being members part of an internationally successful team after NSW won the 2014 Ultimate Fiji Cup.
Danyon, 16, and Sam, 17, were members of a state under 17s team selected to take part in the annual competition in Fiji, which also acts as a trial for the Fijian under 17s side.
A number of teams took part in the competition over different age groups, in boys and girls divisions.
After a loss and a draw, the NSW side won its way through to the final, where it defeated Victoria 2-0.
The Leeton United players were selected by coach Bruce Tilt, who learned of their interest through his association with United life member Frank Porcu.
The NSW under 17s were coached by former Socceroo Paul Carter and Danyon's father Brett was team manager.
Arnold said coping with the conditions was the first thing the boys needed to get used to.
"It was pretty hot and steamy, as you'd expect," the manager said.
"The first day might have been a bit of a shock to them, but they settle din after that.
"I think they went very well. They fitted into the team nicely and were of equal calibre to the rest of the team."
Both Sam and Danyon played in the backs and although this meant they didn't score, they did take part in every game.
Arnold said the quality of the competition was quite good.
"The Fijians, we had to be on our game to beat them," he said.
"Victoria was a very strong side. Our coach sorted out how to play them."
Both boys learned plenty from the experience, with Danyon already keen to go again next year if selected.
"All the boys in the side got on really well," Arnold said.
"I think that's what made the difference in the final. They played well as a team.
"They both enjoyed it, enjoyed the whole experience."