Although losing 3-4 in the encounter, the young Sharks put on a brave performance the more experienced Bonitos.
Kiki said his side was made up of players from Guadalcanal, Malaita and Central province.
“Getting them together to play as a team was a real challenge,” he said.
“But to see them play today as a team and scored three goals against our national training squad was impressive.
“We only have four days practising together and so it was really good to see them putting on a splendid performance.”
He said they have a few areas to work on before their second encounter next Saturday.
Bonito’s coach Jacob Moli said while this was a win for the national training squad the performance was disappointing.
However, he said this was what trial matches are all about.
“You expect players to be nervous and those returning from injuries not performing to expectations.
“Sharks have given us a good fight and they are hungrier for the ball than us although we tried to emphasise ball retention and possession.
“This is the first of the three trial matches and we are hopeful to make improvements, fill in the gaps and turn things around.”
The trial matches are being organised to select a squad for the remaining two matches of the Oceania World Cup Qualifiers later this year.
The final squad is expected to be selected this week.
By Bradford Theonomi
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