AN awesome start for the Solomon Islands Women’s Under-16 national team after they beat the Tahiti side 2-0 in Suva, Fiji yesterday.
The girls led the match five minutes into the match thanks to forward Gracester Kini after scoring their first goal.
After the breather, the girls returned for the second half later scored their second goal in the second spell to conclude the match on a high note.
Highlights of the match revealed the young taking control of the match at the start of the match with many good clear chances.
Throughout the match the forwards have been working hard in attacking Tahiti’s goal.
However, poor finishing denied them the opportunity to score more goals.
Tahiti on the other hand also played an attacking game forcing the SI defenders to work hard in defence.
With the win, the Solomon Islands side under the guidance of Patrick Miniti is on a perfect start in their campaign said, Solomon Islands Football Federartion (SIFF) in a statement.
The statement said, a dream start to the OFC U16 Women’s Championship as Solomon Islands beats Tahiti in their opening Group B match in Suva, Fiji.
“The Solomon Islands took the lead within the opening 5 minutes – thanks to star forward Gracester Kini.
“After a quick build-up play, Kini’s second shot on target found the back of the net, setting the tone for a dominating performance.
“Kini, alongside her striking partner Joy Toby, was a constant threat to the Tahitian defense.
“Toby, in particular, created numerous opportunities to extend the lead,” the statement said.
With possession heavily in favor of the Solomon Islands, the majority of the action took place in Tahiti’s half, keeping their defense under relentless pressure.
Betty Oriana came close to doubling the lead before halftime, only to be denied by a brilliant save from the Tahitian goalkeeper, who worked tirelessly to keep her team in the game, the statement added.
Despite the near miss, the girls continued to pile on the pressure, with Toby and Kini both creating more chances as the second half progressed, it was highlighted.
The statement added, Brenda Areni found the breakthrough in the 70th minute when her deft header to extend the lead.
Defender, Teisika Roatovoa was a standout breaking down Tahitian attacks and launching rapid counterattacks that kept the Solomons in control – getting off the pitch with the ‘Player of the Match’ award.
According to the match schedule Solomon Islands will play New Caledonia on Thursday afternoon 2pm local time.
Their final match on Sunday 15th September will be against favourites – New Zealand at 11am local time.
