Defending champions turn focus to grand final after strong semi-final win
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SUNRISE One has booked its place in another HNA Games Super Division grand final after brushing aside SOSA Faywright 73–44 at the Multi-purpose Hall outdoor netball courts on Saturday.
The defending champions produced a convincing performance in the semi-final, but captain Rebbie Basia says the job is not finished as the team now turns its attention to the final.
“We come back this year, come back defend the title for us,” Basia said shortly after the semi-final victory.
Basia said the team had worked to regroup following its earlier defeat to Suvania and entered Saturday’s semi-final with a clear focus on reaching the grand final.
“Mood, very focused. Everyone come together, everyone focused,” she said.
The Sunrise captain said reaching the final carried added significance for a side that has dominated the Super Division in recent seasons.
“Everyone 100 per cent confident. We come back to defend the title, so everyone 100 per cent focused on giving their best for the grand final,” Basia said.
Sunrise player and goalkeeper Miriam also described another grand final appearance as important for the club, particularly after its success over the past seasons.
“Being the champion for the past seasons, this time is very important for us,” Miriam said.
She credited the players for their commitment throughout the competition, particularly those who have continued turning up for training and developing their skills.
“It’s always our ask for the girls to put 100 per cent into the game and turn up for training to ensure we continue to build our skills,” she said.
Miriam said the team will carry that commitment into the final while acknowledging that sport can produce both victories and defeats.
“If we happen to win the season, then that’s a win for us, and it shows that all the girls put in 100 per cent,” she said.
The 73–44 semi-final victory has now put Sunrise One one step away from another Super Division championship, with the defending champions expected to use the remaining preparation period to sharpen their game before the decider.
Photo credit: HNA
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOSA Faywright may have bowed out of the HNA Games Super Division championship race after a 73–44 semi-final defeat to Sunrise One on Saturday, but the young side can still look back on a campaign that marks an important step forward.
SOSA’s players struggled to settle early against the defending champions before finding their rhythm as the match progressed, eventually fighting through to the final whistle at the Multi-purpose Hall outdoor netball courts.
Sunrise coach and goalkeeper Miriam Basia, who faced SOSA in the semi-final, praised the young Faywright side for its progress and determination to compete at the highest level.
“SOSA is one team that consists of altogether young girls,” Miriam said after the match.
“For me, it’s a joy to see that one team in Super Division, full of young girls who strive to compete even with the champions. They don’t give up.”
Miriam said Sunrise viewed its encounters with SOSA positively, describing the younger players as “young sisters” and encouraging them to continue developing.
“It’s a joy always for us when we take the court with SOSA, altogether young sisters for us,” she said.
SOSA team manager Agape Akao said the semi-final had been a good fight despite the result, with the players eventually playing to their ability.
“It was a good fight. The SOSA girls played to their ability,” Akau said.
She admitted the side struggled to settle during the opening stages, with lost balls and missed centre passes contributing to Sunrise’s strong start.
However, SOSA continued fighting and produced a stronger response in the third quarter before maintaining its effort until the final whistle.
Goal attack Kerry Waita said the defeat exposed areas SOSA must work on, particularly passing, creating space and attacking the ball.
“Our passes were off, creating space and attacking the ball,” Waita said.
She also credited Sunrise’s defenders and shooters for making the contest difficult for SOSA.
Despite the disappointment, Waita said SOSA’s season had been a positive one, particularly after the side missed the playoffs last year.
“The season was very good because we made it to the top four after missing the playoffs last year,” she said.
Waita said the achievement was particularly satisfying because the team had many young and new players, making the campaign an important part of their development.
For SOSA, the semi-final loss closes its title hopes for this season, but the experience of competing against one of the competition’s leading sides provides another valuable step for a young squad continuing to develop.
SOSA Fairite reached the HNA Games Super Division semi-finals before going down 73–44 to defending champions Sunrise One on Saturday at the Multi-purpose Hall outdoor netball courts.
Photo credit: Agape Akao
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands U-19 men’s team ended their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2026 campaign on a winning note, securing the bronze medal after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over New Caledonia in the third-place play-off in Apia, Samoa, yesterday.
According to OFC Media, Seltia Blake scored the decisive goal in the 73rd minute to hand Solomon Islands their second consecutive third-place finish and fourth bronze medal overall at the championship.
The two sides went into the play-off looking to finish their respective campaigns on a positive note after missing out on the final and their FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification opportunity.
Having already beaten New Caledonia 3-1 during the group stage, Solomon Islands again proved too strong, but had to wait until the second half to finally break the deadlock.
Blake found the breakthrough in the 73rd minute after being set up inside the penalty area by Player of the Match Michael Horikura.
The goal proved enough as Solomon Islands held on to secure the bronze medal and close out the tournament with another victory over the New Caledonians.
OFC Media said the result allowed Solomon Islands to “finish their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2026 campaign on a high.”
The bronze-medal finish also continues Solomon Islands’ strong record in the competition, having now finished third twice in succession and four times overall.
Captain Jayroll Patty also ended the tournament among the leading scorers, finishing level with New Zealand substitute Harley Hill on five goals.
Hill scored New Zealand’s second goal in their 2-0 final victory over Tahiti later in the day, drawing level with Patty in the Golden Boot standings.
New Zealand retained the championship for a fifth consecutive edition, defeating Tahiti 2-0 to claim their tenth OFC U-19 Men’s Championship title.
For Solomon Islands, however, the immediate focus will be on building from the bronze-medal finish and using the experience gained in Apia as preparation for future international campaigns.
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Team Solomon departs for international chess showdown
BY NED GAGAHE
SOLOMON Islands’ national chess team has departed Honiara for Uzbekistan to compete in the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand.
The five-player Team Solomon squad left Honiara yesterday, September 13, and is scheduled to arrive in Tashkent before continuing to Samarkand.
The team comprises of Fred Resture on Board One, Chris Kaitu’u on Board Two, Junior Lui on Board Three, Melanie Chottu on Board Four and Abel Puia on Board Five.
Simon Chottu will serve as head of delegation and FIDE delegate, with Kiki Chen as captain and coach and James Samu as assistant captain.
The Olympiad brings together national teams from more than 200 chess federations around the world, giving the Solomon Islands players an opportunity to test themselves against international competition.
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) said the team had undergone weeks of preparation ahead of the tournament.
Preparation included training sessions at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), practice matches, notation exercises and online coaching.
SICF president and head of delegation Simon Chottu said the team’s participation is about more than competing for results.
“We travel to Samarkand carrying the Solomon Islands flag and the hopes of our growing chess community,” Chottu said.
He said the Olympiad will allow the players to gain international experience and bring the knowledge back to help develop the next generation of Solomon Islands chess players.
The federation acknowledged the support of the FIDE, National Sports Council, National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands, Palm Sugar Café, partners, supporters, families and the wider chess community.
The 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, bringing together players from across the world.
Team Solomon will compete under the Solomon Islands flag as it seeks valuable international experience and exposure.
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Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s opens in Honiara, bringing teams together for three days of competition from 16 to 18 September. The Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s competition has been officially opened, setting the stage for three days of high-intensity rugby at Town Ground Rugby Stadium from 16 to 18 September. The opening ceremony& brought [...]
The post Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s Officially Opened appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Fiji beat Solomon Islands 4-3 in Honiara to reach the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 semi-finals. A crunch clash on the final matchday in the group, Fiji always held the upper hand on the scoreboard but were kept on their toes by the tournament hosts in a seven-goal thriller at the National Stadium in Honiara.& [...]
The post Fiji Edge Solomon Islands 4-3 to Reach OFC U-16 Semi-Finals appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Tahiti stun unbeaten Solomon Islands to secure FIFA U-20 World Cup ticket
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ hopes of securing a place at the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup has ended today after Tahiti produced a stunning second-half fightback to defeat the previously unbeaten side 2-1 in their OFC Men’s U-19 Championship semi-final in Apia, Samoa.
The defeat brought a painful end to Solomon Islands’ campaign after they had won all three of their group matches and entered the semi-final with strong hopes of claiming one of Oceania’s two World Cup qualification spots.
According to OFC Media, Solomon Islands started the contest strongly and came close to taking the lead in the ninth minute, with Tahiti goalkeeper Tokihi Tahutini producing a point-blank save to deny Wilkenson Siosi before Kennedy Sihiu fired the follow-up over the crossbar.
Tahiti gradually settled into the contest and threatened from set pieces, with several corners causing problems inside the Solomon Islands penalty area.
Oguen Teanihi also came close with an effort that flashed over the crossbar, while Kali Lenoir missed a golden opportunity shortly after the half-hour mark when he volleyed over an open goal.
Solomon Islands dealt with another blow before the interval when goalkeeper Jaron Faiga was forced off and replaced by Peter Mautoa. It followed the earlier withdrawal of Carlwin Wane after just 19 minutes.
Despite the setbacks, Solomon Islands continued to push after the restart and almost broke the deadlock again when Sihiu forced another outstanding save from Tahutini with a powerful effort from outside the penalty area.
The Solomon Islands side then missed a huge opportunity to take control of the match when Tahiti defender Bradley Ruiz produced a desperate clearance from almost on the goal line.
Jayroll Patty had worked his way around a defender and the goalkeeper before setting up what appeared to be a simple finish for Siosi, only for Ruiz to intervene at the crucial moment.
Ruiz soon turned from saviour to scorer.
Tahiti was awarded an indirect free-kick inside the Solomon Islands penalty area after Mautoa collected a back-pass. The ball was tapped to Ruiz, who drove a low shot through a crowded defence and into the net in the 61st minute.
With World Cup qualification now within reach, Tahiti grew in confidence and doubled their advantage 10 minutes from full time.
Keahinui Brown beat his marker down the right before delivering a low square pass across the face of goal, allowing Herehei Teaha to finish past Mautoa and put Tahiti 2-0 ahead.
Solomon Islands refused to give up and Sihiu finally found the breakthrough in the second minute of stoppage time, unleashing a powerful strike to reduce the deficit.
But there was no time for a second equaliser as Tahiti held on to book their place in the championship final and, more importantly, secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
For Solomon Islands, the 2-1 defeat marks the end of a promising campaign that had seen the side sweep through the group stage with three victories before their World Cup hopes were halted in the semi-final.
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International referees bring elite Sevens experience to Honiara ahead of national 7s tournament
RICHARD MENANOPO
THREE international rugby referees who have officiated at major competitions around the world are now in Honiara, bringing their experience directly to Solomon Islands match officials and coaches ahead of next week’s Solomon Ports National 7s.
South African Rasta Rasivhenge and Fijians Tevita Rokovereni and Filimoni Gadolo arrived in Honiara ahead of the tournament, which will be staged from September 16–18 at Town Ground Rugby Stadium.
Their visit moved into its first full training session yesterday, with match officials, coaches and team management gathering at the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) conference room at Town Ground from 3pm.
The opening session was brief, with participants introducing themselves before the day’s programme was outlined, followed by a short briefing from Gadolo.
Participants then moved onto the field for a practical session focused on tackling, including what constitutes a tackle, the role of the tackler, correct tackling technique and the arrival of the attacking tackler.
After about an hour of practical work, the participants returned to the conference room where the lessons from the field were reinforced through video and slide footage.
The participants were then divided into small groups according to their respective responsibilities, with referees working together and coaches forming their own groups.
The groups discussed their responsibilities in game preparation before presenting their key points to the wider group.
The day’s programme concluded with a group photograph.
According to information shared by Rakabi Solomons, the specialised Match Officials and Coaches Training aims to improve rules clarity, interpretation and consistency among officials and coaches who will be involved in next week’s National 7s.
SIRUF said the presence of the international trio will help “raise the standard of officiating and take Solomon Rugby to another level.”
Rasivhenge brings extensive experience at international sevens level, including having officiated at the Olympic Games, while Rokovereni has also featured on the international sevens circuit. World Rugby records show both referees among officials appointed to major international sevens competitions.
Gadolo, mea brings a strong referee-development focus, making the visit not only relevant to next week’s tournament but also to the longer-term development of local match officials.
SIRUF is expected to continue its referee and coaching development work after the National 7s, with a broader programme to be opened to existing participants and others interested in developing their skills and entering the pathway.
The Solomon Ports National 7s is scheduled for September 16–18 at Town Ground Rugby Stadium, with the competition also serving as an important domestic platform for rugby development.
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Solomon Islands held by Cook Islands as semi-final hopes hang in balance
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands were held to a goalless draw by Cook Islands in their second Group A match of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship at the National Stadium in Honiara last night.
The Young Solomon Islands women team had the better opportunities throughout the encounter but were unable to turn their chances into goals, leaving both sides to settle for a point as their hopes of reaching the semi-finals now go down to the final group match.
According to OFC Media, Solomon Islands forward Janita Ereanimae was at the centre of the hosts’attacking threat, particularly in the first half, but missed three good opportunities.
Ereanimae fired two efforts wide before coming closest to breaking the deadlock when she forced Cook Islands goalkeeper Leah Schuster into a smart save with her feet.
Cook Islands also had opportunities to snatch all three points, with substitute Tetianui Pitomaki hitting the right post five minutes before the end of regulation time.
Despite creating openings at both ends, neither side could find the breakthrough as the match finished 0-0 at full time.
The result leaves Solomon Islands with one point from two matches, while Cook Islands also remain on one point.
The draw also confirmed New Zealand’s place in the semi-finals after the defending champions edged Fiji 1-0 in the earlier Group A encounter.
Bonnie Rice proved the difference for New Zealand, scoring in the fourth minute of stoppage time with a long-range strike to secure all three points.
Fiji had held the seven-time champions scoreless for almost the entire match and looked on course for a valuable point before Rice’s late intervention.
For Solomon Islands, however, attention now turns to Saturday’s final group match against Fiji, where a victory will be crucial if the hosts are to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
Cook Islands will also face New Zealand on the final match-day, with both sides needing victories to have any chance of progressing.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship serves as the Oceania pathway to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2027, with the top two teams earning qualification.
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One win against Tahiti will send Solomon Islands to their first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands are just one victory away from creating football history when they face Tahiti in Friday’s OFC U-19 Men’s Championship semi-final in Apia, Samoa.
Victory at the Samoa Football Headquarters will secure the Solomon Islands side a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027 in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan — a tournament the Solomon Islands have never qualified for.
OFC Media highlighted the significance of the semi-final ahead of Friday’s showdown, with the winner not only progressing to the continental final but also claiming one of Oceania’s two available places at next year’s global finals.
For Solomon Islands, it represents another chance to finally overcome the disappointment of previous generations.
The country has reached the semi-finals in three of the last four editions of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship, but has repeatedly fallen short at the knockout stage. Two years ago, their World Cup dream was ended by New Caledonia in the semi-finals.
Now, eight years after Tahiti defeated Solomon Islands 3-1 at the same stage in 2018, the two sides meet again with a place at the global tournament on the line.
The Solomon Islands side enters Friday’s contest with plenty of confidence after a perfect group-stage campaign, winning all three of their matches to finish top of Group A with nine points.
Captain Jayroll Patty has been central to that impressive run, scoring five goals in three matches and emerging as one of the tournament’s leading attacking threats.
Head coach Franco Ne’e, however, knows the magnitude of what is at stake.
“Everybody’s dream is to qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. The U-16s have done it, and now the pressure is on us to do it too,” Ne’e said.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity that we don’t want to let slip, and we will give it everything.”
Ne’e also believes his young squad possesses the raw talent required to rise to the occasion, despite many of the players experiencing international travel for the first time.
“We must focus on ourselves. How we perform will decide the outcome of the match,” he said.
Tahiti will not be an easy opponent despite suffering a heavy 0-8 defeat to New Zealand in their opening group match.
They responded strongly, improving throughout the competition before securing their semi-final place with a crucial 2-1 victory over Fiji on the final day.
Tahiti are chasing a third appearance at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, having previously qualified in 2009 and 2019.
For Solomon Islands, however, the equation is straightforward — win and history is made.
The first semi-final kicks off at 11am Friday in Samoa, 9am Solomon Islands time, with New Zealand taking on New Caledonia in the second semi-final at 3pm local time.
The two semi-final winners will qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027 and meet in the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship final.
With the U-16 side having secured qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup earlier this year, the U-19s now have an opportunity to deliver another major milestone for Solomon Islands football — this time on the biggest youth stage in the world.
Photo credit: OFC
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Physical Education (PE) teachers in Makira-Ulawa are being introduced to a different way of teaching sport, with greater emphasis being placed on students’ understanding, decision-making and active participation.
The approach formed part of a four-day professional development workshop in Kirakira involving PE teachers from 12 schools across the province.
The National Sports Council (NSC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU), introduced teachers to the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGFU) approach during the training.
TGFU moves away from relying solely on repetitive skills training and encourages students to learn through the situations and challenges presented during games.
That means a PE lesson can become more than simply teaching a child how to pass, kick, throw or move. Students are also encouraged to think about when and why a particular skill should be used.
The approach places greater responsibility on students to read situations, make decisions and find solutions while remaining physically active.
For school sport, such methods can help children develop technical abilities alongside game awareness and confidence in making decisions.
Teachers were also introduced to learner-centred teaching and progressive skills development, giving them additional tools to adapt lessons to different ages and abilities.
The workshop linked PE teaching with Outcome-Based Education and the Solomon Islands National Curriculum Statement and also covered assessment, safety and inclusion.
SINU PE lecturer and researcher David Houpere led the core sessions, supported by NSC’s Carlson Hagemana and Education Manager Atu Balekana.
The training also allowed teachers to practise what they had learned through demonstrations, group activities, lesson planning and mock teaching sessions.
Hagemana said the workshop is only the beginning of the process, with continued support needed to ensure teachers can apply the methods effectively.
“Continued collaboration, follow-up support and mentoring will be important to help teachers apply what they have learned,” said Hagemana.
The new approach is being tested alongside age-appropriate PE activities developed by Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College with support from China Aid and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.
The initiative could give PE teachers another practical tool to help children become not only more physically active, but also more confident and thoughtful participants in sport.
Photo credit: NSC
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Hosts eye first points against Cook Islands
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ young women return to the National Stadium tonight with a crucial Group A encounter against Cook Islands in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, knowing that victory could put their campaign back on track.
The match kicks off at 7pm, following the afternoon meeting between early group leaders New Zealand and Fiji at 4pm.
Both Solomon Islands and Cook Islands go into tonight’s encounter without a point after suffering defeats in their opening matches. Solomon Islands is currently third in Group A on goal difference, while Cook Islands sit fourth.
The hosts opened their campaign against defending champions New Zealand on Monday, going down 5-0 after the Young Football Ferns produced a strong first-half performance. However, Solomon Islands showed greater defensive resilience after the break and managed to keep the defending champions scoreless for more than 45 minutes.
Cook Islands, meanwhile, endured a difficult introduction to the championship, suffering an 11-0 defeat to Fiji in the opening match. Fiji’s Adi Reva scored five goals in the emphatic victory, while Cook Islands struggled to contain the Fijians’ attacking pressure.
That result leaves both sides with plenty to play for tonight, with three points potentially keeping their hopes of progressing from the group alive.
Earlier today, New Zealand and Fiji meet in what promises to be an important top-of-the-table clash. Both sides have three points from their opening matches, with Fiji currently occupying first place on goal difference after their 11-0 win over Cook Islands, ahead of New Zealand following their 5-0 victory over Solomon Islands.
For the Solomon Islands youngsters, tonight provides an opportunity to respond in front of their home crowd and put their first points on the board.
With the tournament offering two qualification places for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027, every point will be valuable as the hosts look to keep their campaign alive.
Group A standings before today’s matches:
Fiji – 3 points
New Zealand – 3 points
Solomon Islands – 0 points
Cook Islands – 0 points
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Netball coaches, umpires, officials and other leaders from around the country have been given an opportunity to strengthen their skills through an Australian Defence Force (ADF) Netball Association training programme in Honiara later this month.
The Solomon Islands Netball Federation (SINFED) has advised provincial netball associations of the opportunity, with each association encouraged to nominate one or two suitable representatives to take part in the coaching and umpiring sessions.
“The programme will provide an important opportunity for netball leaders to strengthen their coaching and umpiring skills while building stronger connections between netball associations in Solomon Islands, the Honiara Netball Association and the ADF Netball Association,” SINFED said.
The ADF Netball Association will be in Honiara as part of a Sports Programme scheduled for September 21–25, with netball included among the sports covered during the visit.
The netball-specific training sessions are scheduled for September 21–22 and September 24–25 at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS).
SINFED said the opportunity is open to coaches, umpires, officials and other netball leaders who are interested and available to participate.
However, the ADF team will not travel to the outer islands during the visit, making the nomination of provincial representatives particularly important for associations wishing to benefit from the programme.
Provincial netball associations have therefore been encouraged to identify suitable representatives and coordinate their participation in the Honiara-based sessions.
The Honiara Netball Association has also welcomed the initiative and encouraged its coaches, umpires and netball leaders to take advantage of the development opportunity.
Interested participants seeking further information and coordination can contact SINFED NDO Ms Doris Dolaiasi via phone or WhatsApp on the number provided in the federation’s notice.
The programme comes as another opportunity for netball stakeholders to develop their technical capacity, particularly in coaching and umpiring, while strengthening connections between Solomon Islands’ netball community and its regional counterparts.
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands U-19 men’s side has marched into the semi-finals of the OFC U-19 Championship after overcoming host Samoa 2-0 in their final group match yesterday at the Samoa Football Headquarters in Apia.
The victory secured the Solomon Islands’ place in Friday’s semi-final, but the players were quick to acknowledge that the win did not come easily against a determined home side.
Speaking to OFC Media after the match, Solomon Islands players Steward Apaniai and Wilkinson Siosi credited teamwork, communication and mutual support for helping the side secure the crucial three points.
“It was a really hard match because Samoa wanted to win at least one match in this tournament,” Siosi said.
He added that the Solomon Islands players stayed together and supported one another throughout the contest.
“As boys, we worked together, supported each other, and communicated well. That is how we achieved these three points,” Siosi said.
For Apaniai, the result is a reward for the team’s collective effort after a demanding encounter.
“First I would like to thank the Almighty for giving strength to us boys in the game today,” Apaniai said.
“Regarding the performance of the team today, we really worked hard to fight for three points. Working together as a team, we achieved this victory today,” he added.
With the group stage now completed, attention has immediately shifted to the semi-final, where the young Solomon Islands side will have little time to rest before returning to action on Friday.
Apaniai said the team will use the short turnaround to identify areas that needed improvement, while also taking personal responsibility for his own performance.
“For the next game, I need to improve myself in all areas on the field, including my tactics. I need to work on my mistakes from today,” he said.
Siosi echoed the same message, saying the team will review its performance against Samoa before preparing for the knockout stage.
“Qualifying for the semi-final was not easy, but we will go back, review the mistakes we made today, and improve for the semi-final,” Siosi said.
The players also used the opportunity to acknowledge the support of Solomon Islands fans, both those who travelled to watch the team and those following from home.
Apaniai thanks supporters for their encouragement and prayers, while Siosi also expressed his appreciation for the continued backing.
“To all the supporters back home, thank you for your prayers. See you in the next game. Go Solo, go!” Apaniai said.
The 2-0 victory over Samoa concludes Solomon Islands’ group-stage campaign and sends the side into Friday’s semi-final with a place in the tournament final now within reach.
Photo credit: OFC Media
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Captain fires Solomon Islands into semi-finals and seals Group A top spot in Apia
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands captain Jayroll Patty struck twice as the Solomon Islands U-19 men’s team secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over host Samoa today to finish top of Group A at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Apia.
Patty delivered at crucial moments, scoring once in each half to settle a competitive encounter at the Samoa Football HQ and send Solomon Islands through to Friday’s semi-finals.
OFC Media reported that Patty opened the scoring in the 20th minute, finishing into the bottom-right corner with his left foot after being set up by Wilkenson Siosi.
The captain then completed his brace in the 90th minute, breaking into the penalty area before rounding the Samoan goalkeeper to put the result beyond doubt.
The two goals take Patty’s tournament tally to five in his last two matches, following the hat-trick he scored in Solomon Islands’ previous outing against New Caledonia.
The victory also means Solomon Islands have topped their group for the third time in six editions of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship, according to OFC Media.
Despite controlling much of the match, Solomon Islands were made to work for the result as Samoa showed plenty of fight in front of their home supporters.
Solomon Islands played in good pace while Samoa relied on strong encouragement from the home crowd. The hosts also created opportunities, with one of their best chances coming in the first half when a shot struck the left post.
Solomon Islands led 1-0 at the break before continuing to press for a second goal after the restart. Samoa’s goalkeeper was also called into action to deny another Solomon Islands attempt, while the Junior Bilikiki continued to threaten from set pieces and open play.
The second goal finally arrived late, with Patty again finding the decisive touch to cap a strong individual performance and secure all three points.
OFC Media described the result as enough to send Solomon Islands into the semi-finals, where they will face the runner-up from Group B on Friday.
New Caledonia also booked their place in the last four after thrashing Papua New Guinea 7-0 earlier in the day, finishing alongside Solomon Islands as Group A’s two semi-finalists.
For Solomon Islands, attention now turns to the knockout stage and another step towards their ambition of reaching the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
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Young Football Ferns open title defence with 5-0 win over hosts Solomon Islands
RICHARD MENANOPO
Defending champions New Zealand made an emphatic start to their OFC U-16 Women’s Championship title defence, defeating hosts Solomon Islands 5-0 at the National Stadium in Honiara last night.
The Young Football Ferns produced a dominant first-half display to establish a 4-0 lead before the hosts fought back strongly after the break, only for New Zealand to add a fifth goal late in the match.
OFC Media reported that New Zealand’s attacking pressure was rewarded early, with Jessica Ellis opening the scoring in the fifth minute after Jess Saunders delivered the assist.
Saunders then doubled the advantage in the 12th minute with a direct long-range free-kick, before Madeleine Dwyer added a third in the 18th minute.
The visitors continued to control possession and territory, forcing the Solomon Islands defence into long periods of pressure as the hosts struggled to maintain possession and build sustained attacks.
Saunders struck again in first-half stoppage time, breaking through before beating Solomon Islands goalkeeper Rose Beui one-on-one to send New Zealand into the break with a commanding 4-0 lead.
However, the second half produced a different response from the hosts.
Solomon Islands tightened defensively and showed greater resilience, managing to keep the defending champions scoreless for more than 45 minutes.
The home side, backed by a lively East Stand crowd whose chants and support continued throughout the match, also created moments of resistance as New Zealand continued to push forward.
The hosts made several substitutions in an effort to change the flow of the match, while New Zealand continued to threaten from set pieces and sustained attacking moves.
Just when it appeared Solomon Islands would prevent a second-half goal, Saunders completed her hat-trick in the third minute of added time, tapping home from a pass by Player of the Match Kodi Wilson to complete the 5-0 victory.
The result sees New Zealand begin their campaign with three points and a strong goal difference as they pursue an eighth consecutive OFC U-16 Women’s Championship title.
For Solomon Islands, the heavy opening defeat provides an early lesson against the tournament’s most successful side, but the second-half defensive improvement offers encouragement heading into their remaining group matches.
New Zealand and Solomon Islands met at the group stage for the third consecutive edition, with New Zealand also winning 5-0 when the teams met in Apia in 2025.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship is being hosted by Solomon Islands for the first time, with the tournament also serving as a pathway towards the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Bilikiki coach J a mes Naka prepares to finalise travelling squad
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
BILIKIKI head coach James Naka is preparing to name his final 12-man travelling squad for next month’s OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup in Tahiti.
The national beach soccer side has now been reduced from its original 20-man squad to 16, leaving four players outside the travelling group as Naka closes in on his final selection.
Speaking to Island Sun during the team’s training session at the SIFF Academy beach soccer pitch on Thursday, Naka confirmed that the final 12 players were expected to be submitted by Friday, marking an important stage in the team’s preparations.
“At this moment, we have 16 — four non-travellers and 12 who will travel,” Naka said.
“I’ll cut it down to the 12 players who will travel. The 12 players will go to the office, and we’ll send the list by tomorrow, Friday. Friday is the last day.”
The selection comes as the squad enters a more demanding phase of its preparations, with players now competing for places in the final travelling group.
Naka said the team has already spent considerable time working on fitness, but the focus is now shifting towards the tactical aspects of beach soccer.
“This time, we’re working on defending and attacking,” he said.
“Over the past few weeks and last month, we worked a little bit on fitness. So, this month and next month before we travel, we’ll work on attacking and defence, as well as set pieces — corners, throw-ins and restarts.”
With the final squad taking shape, Naka is also demanding greater intensity and discipline from his players during training.
He said the sessions must now be conducted at a higher level as the tournament approaches.
“The training must be sharp. Everything we’re doing must be on time and at a high pace,” Naka said.
The coach also hopes to use friendly matches to further assess his players before making the final preparations for Tahiti.
While no friendly had been confirmed at the time of the interview, Naka said he will try to arrange two or three matches before the team departs.
“Friendlies are very important for us,” he said.
“I’d like two or three friendlies, so I can see how the team and the players are performing and identify the areas I need to work on before the tournament.”
Bilikiki’s final selection will be made ahead of a challenging group-stage campaign in Tahiti.
According to the tournament schedule provided by SIFF, Solomon Islands will open against Papua New Guinea on October 22, followed by matches against Tahiti on October 24, New Caledonia on October 26 and Vanuatu on October 29.
The group campaign will determine the teams progressing to the knockout matches on October 31, with the third-place play-off and final scheduled for that day.
For the players currently in the 16-man group, Friday’s submission will therefore represent more than an administrative deadline — it will determine who gets the opportunity to represent Solomon Islands on the regional beach soccer stage.
With only 12 places available for Tahiti, the competition for selection is entering its final stretch.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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Bilikiki coach J a mes Naka prepares to finalise travelling squad
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
BILIKIKI head coach James Naka is preparing to name his final 12-man travelling squad for next month’s OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup in Tahiti.
The national beach soccer side has now been reduced from its original 20-man squad to 16, leaving four players outside the travelling group as Naka closes in on his final selection.
Speaking to Island Sun during the team’s training session at the SIFF Academy beach soccer pitch on Thursday, Naka confirmed that the final 12 players were expected to be submitted by Friday, marking an important stage in the team’s preparations.
“At this moment, we have 16 — four non-travellers and 12 who will travel,” Naka said.
“I’ll cut it down to the 12 players who will travel. The 12 players will go to the office, and we’ll send the list by tomorrow, Friday. Friday is the last day.”
The selection comes as the squad enters a more demanding phase of its preparations, with players now competing for places in the final travelling group.
Naka said the team has already spent considerable time working on fitness, but the focus is now shifting towards the tactical aspects of beach soccer.
“This time, we’re working on defending and attacking,” he said.
“Over the past few weeks and last month, we worked a little bit on fitness. So, this month and next month before we travel, we’ll work on attacking and defence, as well as set pieces — corners, throw-ins and restarts.”
With the final squad taking shape, Naka is also demanding greater intensity and discipline from his players during training.
He said the sessions must now be conducted at a higher level as the tournament approaches.
“The training must be sharp. Everything we’re doing must be on time and at a high pace,” Naka said.
The coach also hopes to use friendly matches to further assess his players before making the final preparations for Tahiti.
While no friendly had been confirmed at the time of the interview, Naka said he would try to arrange two or three matches before the team departs.
“Friendlies are very important for us,” he said.
“I’d like two or three friendlies, so I can see how the team and the players are performing and identify the areas I need to work on before the tournament.”
Bilikiki’s final selection will be made ahead of a challenging group-stage campaign in Tahiti.
According to the tournament schedule provided by SIFF, Solomon Islands will open against Papua New Guinea on October 22, followed by matches against Tahiti on October 24, New Caledonia on October 26 and Vanuatu on October 29.
The group campaign will determine the teams progressing to the knockout matches on October 31, with the third-place play-off and final scheduled for that day.
For the players currently in the 16-man group, Friday’s submission will therefore represent more than an administrative deadline — it will determine who gets the opportunity to represent Solomon Islands on the regional beach soccer stage.
With only 12 places available for Tahiti, the competition for selection is entering its final stretch.
Hosts carry confidence into Sunday showdown with defending champions New Zealand
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands will carry renewed confidence into Sunday’s OFC U-16 Women’s Championship opener, but face an immediate test against defending champions New Zealand at the National Stadium.
The young hosts go into the tournament on the back of an encouraging victory over the senior women’s national team earlier this week, providing a timely boost ahead of a demanding Group A campaign.
OFC Media reported following yesterday afternoon’s pre-tournament media conference at the Coral Sea Resort and Casino that head coach Kanto Yamashita believes playing at home can give his players an advantage, particularly through their familiarity with the local conditions.
“We train in this environment every day, so we know the pitches, the climate and conditions very well,” Yamashita said.
However, the Japanese coach also recognises the pressure that comes with playing a major regional tournament on home soil.
“At the same time, playing at home also means carrying greater experience and pressure,” he said.
That pressure will be put to the test from the outset, with New Zealand awaiting the hosts in the opening match at 7pm on Sunday.
New Zealand enters the competition as defending champions, although head coach Alana Gunn stressed that the current squad represents a new cycle.
“We have a new team and a new cycle,” Gunn said.
For Solomon Islands, the challenge continues after Sunday’s opener.
They face Cook Islands in their second Group A match on Wednesday, September 9, at 7pm, before completing the group stage against Fiji on Saturday, September 12, also at 7pm.
The top two sides from Group A will advance to the semi-finals.
Despite the confidence gained from beating the senior side, Yamashita said his players must remain grounded and remember their position as challengers.
“We have gained a lot of confidence from this result. We will never forget that we are still the challengers,” he said.
“We will approach this tournament with confidence, but also with humility and hunger.”
His message reflects the wider purpose of the championship, which provides a valuable international development platform for Oceania’s emerging women’s footballers.
Coaches from across the competition also highlighted player development and international exposure as key priorities.
For the Solomon Islands girls, however, attention now turns to Sunday night and the opening whistle.
A strong result against the defending champions would give the hosts an ideal start before they face Cook Islands and Fiji in their remaining group matches.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship runs from September 6-19 in Honiara, with eight nations competing and the tournament providing a pathway towards the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027 in Morocco.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Captain’s treble sends Solomon Islands into U-19 semi-finals
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON Islands U-19 captain Jayroll Patty produced a match-winning performance today, scoring a hat-trick to fire his side to a 3-1 victory over New Caledonia and secure a place in the semi-finals of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa.
Patty struck three times at the Samoa Football HQ in Apia, scoring in the 36th, 45+3rd and 74th minutes to lead the Solomon Islands to their second consecutive Group A victory.
According to the official OFC match report, New Caledonia were reduced to 10 men in the 18th minute following the dismissal of Kyllian Wiako for violent conduct.
The Solomon Islands captain opened the scoring in the 36th minute after capitalising on a defensive mistake before New Caledonia responded through Jemmanuel Siwoine in the 43rd minute.
But Patty restored the lead deep into first-half stoppage time, sending the Solomon Islands into the break 2-1 ahead.
The skipper completed his hat-trick in the 74th minute to seal a 3-1 victory and confirm the Solomon Islands’ progression to the last four. OFC also reported that the result put the Solomon Islands in control of Group A.
Reflecting on the performance after the match, Patty credited the result to the collective effort of the team.
“Yeah, teamwork, teamwork. Performance was good. We stuck to our game plan,” Patty said.
“The boys, the coaches, Franco... and yeah, good performance, teamwork. We deserved the three points.”
Despite scoring all three goals, Patty was quick to emphasise the contribution of his teammates when asked about his hat-trick.
“Yeah, a hat-trick here is not easy. Teamwork, hard work,” he said.
“Yeah, sharing the ball, and I scored. Yeah, thank you for the hard work.”
The Solomon Islands had entered the match on the back of a 1-0 victory over Papua New Guinea in their opening Group A match, meaning the win over New Caledonia gave them six points from two matches. OFC’s competition information confirms the Solomon Islands opened their campaign with a 1-0 win over PNG.
With the semi-final place secured, Patty said the team will now focus on correcting its mistakes and prepare for the next challenge.
“Yeah, work on mistakes. Mistakes are normal, and yeah, build up for the next game,” he said.
The captain also dedicated the victory to supporters back home, urging them to continue backing the team.
“We won here for Solomon Islands, our beloved country,” Patty said.
“Keep on praying behind the team. We are still on the mission, halfway yet. Thank you so much.”
The Solomon Islands will now turn their attention to their final Group A match against hosts Samoa on September 7, before the semi-finals on September 11.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Unbeaten leaders head into Day 17 as Kaliki Futsal League race heats up
RICHARD MENANOPO
HAUS 1 FC continues to set the pace in the Kaliki Futsal League, maintaining an unbeaten record at the top of the standings heading into Day 17 this Saturday.
The Bloody Ridge-based competition enters another round of action with Haus 1 FC sitting comfortably at the summit after recording 14 wins and one draw from 15 matches.
The Kaliki Futsal League, in its latest standings and fixtures update posted on its official social media platform, confirmed Haus 1 FC’s position at the top while releasing the Day 17 fixtures scheduled for Saturday at Kaliki Place, Bloody Ridge.
Haus 1’s impressive record gives the league leaders 43 points, with Destiny FC their closest challengers on 39 points after 13 wins and two defeats from 15 matches.
Youngsters FC and Masina Hunters FC are also firmly in the top-four picture; each having collected 34 points from 16 matches.
Further down the standings, AC Bullets, Huki 1 FC, Maramasike FC and Maramasike United remain within striking distance, making the battle for positions behind the leaders increasingly competitive as the league progresses.
Saturday’s Day 17 programme will feature several matches, including Masina Hunters FC against Roone Whites FC, Huki 2 FC versus Poison Paro, Maramasike FC against Ohio 1 FC, Kaliki 2 FC versus Weisuka United, and Triple M FC against Huki 1 FC.
The league has also placed a watch on the weather ahead of the weekend programme, with organisers saying they will provide updates should conditions force any changes to the fixtures.
“We continue to monitor our weather forecast in the meantime, we will update on any changes caused due to the weather,” the league said.
The Kaliki Futsal League, based at Kaliki Place in Bloody Ridge, continues to provide a competitive futsal platform while promoting youth development and community participation through the sport.
Photo credit: KFL file
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不败的领头羊在卡利基五人制足球联赛的第17天中继续领先
理查德·梅纳诺波
HAUS 1 FC 在卡利基五人制足球联赛中继续保持领先,以不败的战绩进入本周六的第17天。
位于血腥山的比赛进入了另一个轮次,HAUS 1 FC 在15场比赛中取得14场胜利和1场平局,稳居榜首。
卡利基五人制足球联赛在其官方社交媒体平台上发布的最新排名和赛程更新中确认了HAUS 1 FC的领先地位,并公布了定于周六在血腥山卡利基广场进行的第17天赛程。
HAUS 1的出色战绩使得他们以43分领先,紧随其后的是在15场比赛中取得13场胜利和2场失利的命运FC,积分为39分。
年轻人FC和马西纳猎人FC也稳居前四名,各自从16场比赛中获得34分。
在排名的下方,AC子弹队、Huki 1 FC、马拉马西克FC和马拉马西克联队仍在争夺中,使得随着联赛的进行,争夺领头羊后面的名次变得愈发激烈。
周六的第17天赛程将包括几场比赛,包括马西纳猎人FC对阵罗恩白队、Huki 2 FC对阵毒药帕罗、马拉马西克FC对阵俄亥俄1 FC、卡利基2 FC对阵韦苏卡联队,以及Triple M FC对阵Huki 1 FC。
联赛还关注周末赛程前的天气,组织者表示,如果天气条件迫使任何赛程变更,他们将提供更新。
“我们会继续监测天气预报,若因天气原因造成任何变更,我们会及时更新,”联赛表示。
卡利基五人制足球联赛以血腥山的卡利基广场为基地,继续提供一个竞争激烈的五人制足球平台,同时通过这项运动促进青年发展和社区参与。
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PNG U-16 coach eyes semi-finals
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
PAPUA New Guinea’s U-16 women’s team arrived in Honiara this morning with their sights firmly set on reaching the semi-finals and securing one of Oceania’s two qualification spots for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027.
Speaking to Island Sun at Henderson International Airport shortly after the team’s arrival, PNG head coach Susan Steven said her young side is prepared for the challenge ahead.
Steven said the tournament will be a major test for the players, with PNG drawn in Group B alongside New Caledonia, Samoa and Tonga.
“All the countries have prepared to come here. So, the girls and I have also prepared to come, and whatever result comes up, it comes up,” Steven said.
The PNG coach made it clear that her team is not travelling simply to participate.
With the winner and runner-up earning qualification to next year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, Steven said the opportunity is a major motivation for her players.
“These two spaces to qualify for the World Cup are very important for all the countries to come,” she said.
“Everyone is thinking about coming here, and my plan for PNG is to go inside the World Cup.”
Steven also described the current squad as an important part of PNG’s women’s football development pathway, with most of the players having featured in the previous tournament and only a few newcomers joining the group.
“This Under-16 group is a development team. Most of them played in the last tournament, and only a few, I think a couple of them, are new and have joined the team,” she said.
For now, Steven’s message to her young players is simple: stay focused, work hard and give their best.
“The main thing now for these little girls is to focus on whatever we have planned for them,” she said.
“And I believe all of them will play their best, work hard for winning or achieving something in this tournament, and go into the semi-finals.”
PNG will open its Group B campaign against New Caledonia on Monday, September 7, before facing Tonga on September 10 and Samoa on September 13 at the National Stadium.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship runs from September 6-19 in Honiara, with the top two teams earning Oceania’s qualification places for the 2027 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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Acting Commissioner of Police James Aitorea says the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is preparing to investigate findings contained in the Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) and 2023 Pacific Games audit reports.
Speaking at his first media conference today, Aitorea said he had yet to receive any formal referrals from the latest audit report, but assured the public that police would follow up on the findings once the relevant reports and referrals were received.
“Yes, I am in the process of preparing for the investigation,” Aitorea said.
The Acting Commissioner, who has been in the position for about a month, said he was in the process of putting together a team of professionals to conduct the investigations.
He said the team would comprise both local investigators and experts from outside the country, with neutrality and professionalism being key considerations.
Aitorea said the investigation team would include forensic financial experts and experienced local police investigators to examine the financial and administrative issues identified in the audits.
He confirmed that the investigations would cover both the Pacific Games and ESP audits.
The announcement follows the release of audit reports raising serious concerns over the management and expenditure of public funds.
The Pacific Games Special Audit Report identified significant weaknesses in financial management, procurement and governance, while the ESP audit also raised concerns over compliance with government financial rules and the use of public funds.
Aitorea said police would focus on the findings contained in the reports once the necessary referrals and documentation were made available.
He stressed the need for the investigation team to be independent and neutral to ensure the matters are properly examined.
The proposed investigations could potentially lead to further action if evidence of criminal wrongdoing is established.
Aitorea said police would ensure the investigations were conducted by appropriately qualified professionals as the RSIPF moves to examine the serious concerns raised by the two audits.
Le’ai Hits Six as Coast Make
Statement S-League Return
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
Central Coast FC have marked their return to the SIFF Super League (S-League) in style, thrashing Sosa FC 9-0 in Wednesday’s midweek clash at Lawson Tama Stadium.
The defending champions were playing their first S-League match since returning from an impressive OFC Men’s Champions League campaign, where they finished runners-up.
Coast made their intentions clear early, with Hudyn Irodao and Rafa Le’ai, who scored twice, putting them 3-0 ahead at halftime.
Le’ai continued his impressive form after the break, adding four more goals to complete a six-goal haul, while Hudson Oreinema and Junior Fordney also found the net to seal a dominant victory.
The win now sees Central Coast go three wins from three matches this season.
Speaking after the match, Central Coast head coach Jacob Moli praised his players for their performance and said the focus has now shifted back to the S-League.
“It is great to return with a win. It was not an easy game, and I think my boys just returned from a big tournament.
"The feeling of playing at that level is still there with the boys, and it showed in today’s scoreline,” he said.
Moli also acknowledged the demanding schedule ahead, with Central Coast set to play a number of catch-up fixtures alongside their regular league matches.
He said managing the squad’s workload will be crucial as they look to maintain their current form.
“With this tight schedule, it will mainly be about how we manage ourselves. If we manage ourselves properly, I think it will help us continue our current form,” Moli said.
The Central Coast coach also praised star forward Le’ai, who appears to be regaining his best form following the Champions League campaign.
“He’s slowly getting back to his best, and it is also about confidence.
"It is so great to see him getting it back, which is not only great for us but also the national team,” Moli said.
With Central Coast aiming to successfully defend their S-League title for a third consecutive season, Moli admitted the challenge will be difficult with several teams also chasing the championship.
“We just have to be concentrated on the games at hand, and it has always been our focus to defend our title,” he said.
Meanwhile, another exciting round of fixtures is scheduled for this weekend at Lawson Tama Stadium as the S-League enters Matchweek Eight.
//End//
Le’ai Hits Six as Coast Make
Statement S-League Return
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
中央海岸足球俱乐部(Central Coast FC)在SIFF超级联赛(S-League)复出时以9-0的比分痛击索萨足球俱乐部(Sosa FC),在周三的中场比赛中展现了风采。
作为卫冕冠军,他们是在结束了令人印象深刻的OFC男子冠军联赛(OFC Men’s Champions League)后,首次参加S联赛比赛,并获得亚军。
中央海岸早早明确了他们的意图,哈丁·伊罗达(Hudyn Irodao)和拉法·勒艾(Rafa Le’ai)各进两球,上半场以3-0领先。
勒艾在下半场继续保持出色状态,再进四球,完成六球的壮举,而哈德森·奥雷内马(Hudson Oreinema)和小福德尼(Junior Fordney)也为球队进球,锁定了这场主导胜利。
这场胜利使中央海岸在本赛季的三场比赛中取得三场胜利。
赛后,中央海岸主教练雅各布·莫利(Jacob Moli)称赞了球员们的表现,并表示现在的重点已回到S联赛。
“能够以胜利回归真是太好了。这不是一场轻松的比赛,我认为我的球员刚刚从一场大型比赛中归来。
“在那个水平比赛的感觉仍然在球员们身上,并在今天的比分中体现出来,”他说。
莫利还承认,接下来的赛程非常紧张,中央海岸将与常规联赛比赛一起进行多场补赛。
他说,管理球队的工作量将是关键,因为他们希望保持当前的状态。
“在这个紧凑的赛程中,主要是我们如何管理自己。如果我们妥善管理自己,我认为这将有助于我们继续保持当前的状态,”莫利说。
中央海岸教练还称赞了明星前锋勒艾,他似乎在冠军联赛后逐渐恢复最佳状态。
“他正在慢慢恢复最佳状态,这也与信心有关。
“看到他找回状态真是太好了,这不仅对我们有利,对国家队也是如此,”莫利说。
中央海岸希望成功卫冕S联赛冠军,莫利承认挑战将很艰巨,因为还有几支球队也在争夺冠军。
“我们只需专注于手头的比赛,我们一直以来的目标就是捍卫我们的冠军头衔,”他说。
与此同时,本周末在劳森·塔马体育场(Lawson Tama Stadium)将迎来另一轮激动人心的比赛,S联赛进入第八轮。
//结束//
