The Solomon Islands U-16 national team wrapped up their OFC Men’s U-16 Championship campaign in sixth place after a narrow 3-2 defeat to Tahiti in the fifth-place playoff on Thursday at Lawson Tama Stadium.
Backed by a lively home crowd, the hosts struck first in the 12th minute, with Junior Sam continuing his fine goal-scoring form by heading home from a corner.
Tahiti responded just four minutes later when Tiaitau Vauquelin equalised from close range. Vauquelin then added his second in the 39th minute, heading past the advancing Solomon Islands goalkeeper to give his side the lead.
On the stroke of halftime, Tahiti extended their advantage through Thomas Pita-Bougues, sending the visitors into the break with a 3-1 cushion.
The Katukatus fought back in the second half and found hope in the 75th minute when substitute Ajay Ufaria fired a stunning left-footed strike into the bottom corner to make it 3-2.
Despite a late surge from the hosts, Tahiti’s defence held strong to deny an equaliser.
The result saw Tahiti secure fifth place, while the Solomon Islands finished the tournament in sixth.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
