Naha Women’s Football Club have maintained their lead at the top of the Solrais Women’s Premier League (SWPL) standings following a 1-1 draw against defending champions Henderson Eels, as the league kicked off its second round of fixtures.
With eight wins and just one loss that came at the hands of the Eels in round one, the Lawrence Diau-coached side were eager to avenge that defeat and solidify their place at the top of the table.
Naha fell behind midway through the first half when a shot from an Eels attacker deflected off a Naha defender and found the back of the net.
However, minutes later, Almah Gogoni brought her side level with a spectacular strike, continuing her fine form from the successful OFC Women’s Nations Cup campaign.
Speaking after the match, coach Diau expressed disappointment with the result, stating the match could have ended in their favor had they capitalized on their chances.
“We had a couple of opportunities which, if we had utilized, could have won us the match. In games like this, between two strong teams, you have to take your chances. But overall, it’s better to come away with a point than nothing,” he said.
Diau also noted that the long break between rounds had an impact on his team’s fitness and performance.
“We had a long break for more than a month and it has really affected my players and their fitness. But it’s good that we’re back in competition and can continue preparing for the upcoming fixtures,” he added.
As the league enters its decisive final phase, Diau reaffirmed his team’s ambition to improve on last season’s performance.
“Since we finished as runners-up last season, our aim now is to go one step further and finish on top of the table and we are working hard to achieve that,” he stated.
With eight wins, one draw, and one loss, Naha FC currently lead the SWPL with 25 points from 10 matches.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
