Chances of making the final are hanging by a thread for the host nation of Solomon Islands after their 4-0 defeat to favourites New Zealand during Thursday’s second match.
Solomon Islands went through a disappointing defeat to Tahiti early this week.
They managed to put on a good performance against Tonga on Tuesday.
But it was the Kiwis that started brightly and took an early lead through captain Hannah Kraakman – firing high into the roof of the net to briefly quieten a partisan home crowd.
Solomon Islands continued to press aggressively, making life difficult for New Zealand to get into their passing rhythm.
Madeline Arukau coming closest to levelling matters with a fiercely struck shot that goalkeeper Hannah Hegarty did well to tip away.
Nic Downes side however were in no mood to let the hosts have their own way and they doubled the lead at the quarter-hour mark.
Jemma Catherwood and Libby Boobyer combining well before the latter set up Jordana Bremner to finish high into the net.
Claudia Votu had a great chance for Solomon Islands but Hegarty came to New Zealand’s rescue again, making herself big to save well from close range.
The noise inside Friendship Hall was turned up a notch by the passionate home fans, but it was the Kiwis who would strike in the second period.
Libby Boobyer’s effort from range fizzed past Joyce Lekani to make it 3-0 and provide some breathing space.
Boobyer added a second for herself and her side’s fourth half way through the second period to extinguish any hope of a comeback from the valiant Solomon Islanders.
The three points sees New Zealand now all but set for the final on Sunday.
As for Solomon Islands, their hopes rest on winning their final match against Fiji at 5pm, Friday, and hoping other results go their way.
The final matches will be this weekend.
It’s the first time for such a competition to be organised for women.
Five nations are competiting with all matches played at the Friendship Hall.
- OFC
