Central Coast FC had to wait until the final day of the season to secure the 2025 Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Super League (S-League) title.
It was a winner-takes-all clash at Lawson Tama Stadium as league leaders Central Coast faced second-placed Malaita Kingz FC, who were just two points behind and needed a win to claim their first-ever title.
The match lived up to its billing, with both sides evenly matched in possession and chances. The breakthrough came for Jacob Moli’s side when striker Clifford Fafale was brought down in the penalty area by Kingz goalkeeper David Sanga.
Marlon Tahioa calmly converted from the spot, scoring the decisive goal that sealed Coast’s back-to-back championship and their third S-League title overall.
Saturday’s season closing also saw Central Coast dominate the award presentations. Goalkeeper Erick Peter Wanega claimed the Golden Glove, while Clifford Fafale secured the Golden Boot with 23 goals, while veteran, Joses Nawo was named the League’s Best Player.
Other award recipients included Sosa FC, who won the Fair Play Award; Natalia Lumukana, who was named Assistant Referee of the Year; and Ben Aukwai, who once again took home the Referee of the Year title.
The championship win also means Central Coast will represent Solomon Islands in the 2026 Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Champions League.
In the final standings, Central Coast finished top with 54 points, followed by Malaita Kingz FC on 49 points, impressive debutants Green Shield FC in third on 47 points, and Honiara City FC rounding out the top four with 46 points.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
