Wairarapa United football coach Phil Keinzley is hoping the conviction of his star player Pita Rabo on a charge of assault will not affect the Fijian striker's chances of remaining in New Zealand.
Rabo, 34, has been three times convicted of drink-driving since 2005 and this week was sentenced for assaulting his partner, having earlier pleaded guilty to punching her in the face as she lay on the ground.
Keinzley, who was only yesterday released from Wairarapa Hospital, where he was recovering from car crash injuries, said he hoped the hero of last year's thrilling Chatham Cup win would be able to remain in Wairarapa.
Rabo has been living in the region for several years but is not a naturalised New Zealander.
He works as a roofer and has several times succeeded in renewing his work visa.