Solomon Islands National Womens Team Interim head coach Moses Toata has thanked his players for their perseverance and hard work in winning the OFC Women’s title for the first time.
Speaking to OFC Media after the historic win in Suva, Fiji on Saturday night Toata said, the victory has brought feelings of excitement and emotion.
He also expressed surprise that the additional 15 minutes was longest ever he had experienced.
But he thanked the girls for their commitment in delivering the result.
Toata who was appointed as an interim coach thanked all the clubs for their dedication and sacrifice in support the girsl and the team.
In-spite being an interim coach he was pleased that the girls were able to understand the game plan.
“They learn very fast which help to deliver the game plan,” he said.
He also acknowledged the physio in allowing Ileen Pegi to be given the go ahead to feature in the final because she was injured.
Toata also acknowledged all the local supporters fans in Solomon Islands for their support and prayers.
He expressed his sincere thanks to all Solomon Islanders studying, living and working in Suva, Fiji for their huge support through out the two weeks competition.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Peter Shanel who is in Suva personally meets the team after the final at the stadium to congratulate them.
He was accompanied by SI High Commissioner to Fiji Joseph Ma’ahanua and former SIFF President Willie Lai.
Solomon Islands has struggled to reach the finals over the past years and Saturday’s win is a history for the women team.
Apart from winning the trophy the Solomon Islands goal keeper also won the golden glove award.
At the stadium the Solomon Islands national flag can be spotted running around the stadium as the supporters chanted ‘Go Solo Go.’
All the team members received a gold medal each from the OFC President before Captain Ileen Pegi formally received the OFC Women OFC Nations Cup before a huge celebration by the team followed inside the stadium.
Many supporters and football fans also watched the match online and many joined in the celebration across the nation.
The team is due back in the country early next week and a welcome parade is expected to be accorded to them.
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