Makira Ulawa Kakamora have continued their impressive form in the 2025 Solomon Cup, defeating Lauru Kuvojo 2-0 in a match filled with action and drama.
Both teams entered the match with wins in their previous outings, fully aware that a victory would bring them a step closer to securing a semi-final spot.
The drama began early when Kuvojo were reduced to 10 men after captain Rabuka Sipele was shown a red card for a foul on Kakamora striker Clifford Fafale just outside of the 18-yard-box.
Kakamora immediately took advantage of the numerical superiority, launching wave after wave of attacks.
Their pressure paid off before halftime when they were awarded a penalty. Fafale calmly converted from the spot to give his side a 1-0 lead at the break.
Despite being a man down, Kuvojo came out strong in the second half and created several chances, but failed to find the back of the net.
Kakamora punished them moments later, with Andrew Hanua finishing off a swift counterattack to double the lead and seal the three points for his side.
Speaking after the match, Kakamora head coach John Dagi Jnr expressed his satisfaction with the result, though he admitted his team struggled to execute their game plan.
“I’m happy with the win, but I must say most of what we practiced in training didn’t work out today. Still, it’s another important three points,” he said.
Looking ahead to their next match against Western Tomoko, Dagi stressed the need to improve. “Western Tomoko is a strong team and I respect them. We’ll need to work extra hard.”
Despite two wins from two, Dagi emphasized that there’s no room for complacency if they want to top their pool.
He also praised guest players and defensive duo Stanton Alick and Gordon Iro, who have now helped the team keep two consecutive clean sheets.
“Overall, I’m proud of Stanton and Gordon. They’ve done a great job and really boosted the morale of the younger players, who are learning a lot from them,” he added.
Dagi also extended his gratitude to the fans and people of Makira Ulawa for their ongoing support—whether at the venue or watching online.
In the day’s opening match, Honiara Warriors and Western Tomoko shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, with Bobby Leslie’s first-half strike cancelled out by Barrie Limoki midway through the second half.
With two wins from two matches, Makira Ulawa Kakamora now sit on top of Pool B with six points. Kuvojo and Western Tomoko follow closely behind with four points each, while hosts Honiara Warriors sit fourth with two points from two draws. Isabel Frigates remain at the bottom with no points so far.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
Photo caption: Action of the Honiara Warriors – Western Tomoko match on Saturday. Photo Credit: Brek Pensol Production
