The Solomon Islands survived a late onslaught to edge Uruguay 7-6 in what was an exhilarating start to their FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009 campaign. The Oceania representatives held a five-goal cushion with just six minutes remaining, but will be mightily relieved to have put three points on the board following a spirited comeback from their Group A rivals.

The infallible Ricar gave Uruguay an early avantage, but goals from Laua, Hosea, Muri and Wale sent Solomon Islands in 4-2 up at the first break. The South Americans were incapable of nullifying their underdogs’ counter-attacking style, with a quick-fire brace from Laua, which completed his hat-trick, and a strike from Omo making it 7-2 before the end of the second period.

However, midway through the concluding period, Uruguay found their rhythm, and four goals within three minutes – Martin and Ricar both completed doubles, while Pampero and Fabian were also on target – made for a thrilling last few minutes. The Charrúas threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, but the Solomons ultimately escaped with the points.

Uruguay - Solomon Islands
6-7 (2-4, 0-3, 4-0)

Uruguay: 6 (RICAR 2’43” PEN, 31’06”, MARTIN 9’30”, 28’13”, PAMPERO 28’52”, FABIAN 30’39”)
Solomon Islands: 7 (LAUA 5’25”, 14’23”, 14’46”, HOSEA 7’54”, MURI 8’25”, WALE 10’29”, OMO 21’30”)

Uruguay starting line-up: 1. DIEGO, 3. RICAR, 4. COCO, 5. PAMPERO, 6. MARTIN
Substitutes: 2. FABRICIO, 7. PARRILLO, 8. MIGUEL, 9. OLI, 10. FABIAN, 11. MATIUS, 12. LEANDRO

Solomon Islands starting line-up: 12. Fred HALE, 2. Timothy WALE, 7. Michael TAEMAN, 8. OMO, 10. James NAKA

Substitutes: 1. Henry PADAVERANO, 3. Franco NEE, 4. Eddie NGAITIN, 5. Hickly RENCE, 6. Muri MAKAA, 9. Robert LAUA, 11. Gibson HOSEA, 12. Fred HALE

Solomon Islands match schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands
6-7 (2-4, 0-3, 4-0)

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Visit FIFA.com for full previews, reviews and live scoring

OFC President Reynald Temarii has congratulated the New Zealand All Whites after their historic 1-0 victory over Bahrain in Wellington at the weekend to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

A Rory Fallon goal in the 45th minute was enough to send the Oceania champions through to football's biggest stage – a feat they have not achieved since 1982.

President Temarii says it is a momentous occasion for New Zealand and for Oceania football.

“Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup™ is a moment to be savoured. It is something that this team has worked incredibly hard to achieve and something that will bring pride to thousands of football fans across the Pacific,” said President Temarii.

“I would like to pass on my congratulations to the All Whites and to New Zealand Football for believing in this dream and making it happen.”

Football fans have had to wait 27 years for New Zealand to qualify for their second FIFA World Cup™ but Temarii believes last night's victory could be the start of greater representation for OFC at FIFA's pinnacle event.

“This success will give confidence to the All Whites while also encouraging other Pacific Island nations that the goal of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup™ is within reach.”
 
Temarii says that the qualification is the outcome of strategic decisions taken in 2005 between FIFA, OFC, Football Federation Australia (FFA) and New Zealand Football (NZF).

“In 2006 Australia officially moved into the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) while at the same time OFC secured the right to play AFC’s fifth-place qualifier on the road to the World Cup – a more appealing proposition than the previous pathway of playing a COMNEBOL representative.
 
“On top of this, FFA, through an agreement with OFC, allowed a team from New Zealand (Wellington Phoenix) to play in the A-League which gave an opportunity for some of New Zealand's best footballers to play professionally.”

Temarii has always considered the departure of Australia into Asia as a wonderful opportunity for the emergence of other Pacific nations to compete on the world stage.
 
“The Solomon Islands at the FIFA Futsal World Cup 2008 and FIFA Beach Soccer World Cups (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009), Tahiti at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2009 and New Zealand playing in various other FIFA competitions since 2007 is a perfect illustration of that.
 
“I remain convinced that the positive and significant evolutions of NZF on the international football stage is first and foremost the fruit of the exemplary leadership of its new Chairman Frank van Hattum, elected just one year ago, and CEO Michael Glading with whom OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas is working closely.”

A sad chapter in Solomon Islands football was written over the weekend when riotous fans burnt down the administration building at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara following a disputed referee’s decision in the Solomon Cup match between Honiara Warriors and Malaita Eagles.

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has expressed its disappointment over the unfortunate incident during what is the country's highest level football tournament.

The dispute was triggered when referee John Sao’hu disallowed a Malaita Eagles goal after Honiara Warriors goalkeeper Leon Lekezoto was fouled. A free-kick was awarded to Honiara Warriors and this resulted in fans throwing rocks.

The disturbance quietened down and the game was allowed to continue with six minutes added time. But on the stroke of full-time, Honiara Warriors striker Ezra Sale put his side 1–0 ahead which sparked widespread unrest.

Spectators rushed towards the match officials who had to be escorted out of the stadium. A huge section of the crowd then turned on the administration building with rocks. They eventually broke down the gate to the administration area and smashed open the doors to the ticketing office where they took off with the gate-takings.

The loss was made even greater when the administration building was set alight and it did not take long for the building to be fully ablaze. Several vehicles parked in the administration area were also damaged by the thrown rocks.

Only a minimal number of police were present at Lawson Tama during the incident and they could not do anything to stop the crowd. The fire truck that was sent in was obstructed by rioters throwing rocks.

By 9:00pm the building had burned completely. The crowd had, by then, moved on to Chinatown where they were eventually dispersed by police and military reinforcements from the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands contingent and the local riot squad.

The administration building houses the SIFF President’s office as well as the Honiara Football Association and Futsal and Beach Soccer Development Office.

Several historic photographs were also lost in the fire. The building was also used as a storeroom for SIFF equipment and everything inside including uniforms used by the national team were lost to the fire. An era of trophies and memorabilia were also claimed by the fire.

The container next to the administration building also caught alight and all the equipment inside was lost.

Story courtesy SIFF Media

Among the euphoria of New Zealand’s historic and dramatic qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ was an unanticipated hero of the hour. While stalwarts such as captain Ryan Nelsen and Ivan Vicelich played an important role in the aggregate win over Bahrain, and goalkeeper Mark Paston has been lauded for his penalty save, the name that will certainly be long remembered is hitherto little-known striker Rory Fallon.

Much like Oceania Player of the Century Wynton Rufer, whose goal ultimately sealed the All Whites berth at Spain 1982, Fallon’s bullet header from a Leo Bertos corner in the final minute of the first half will live long in the annals of New Zealand sport. To add to the synergy surrounding New Zealand’s qualification, and that of the ’82 squad, Rory’s father Kevin was the assistant coach for that famous inaugural and only appearance on the world stage 28 years ago.

After playing for England at youth level, the Kiwi-born striker only debuted for New Zealand in September, but already he has made an impact for the Kiwis forcing teenage striker Chris Wood from the teamsheet. Now settling into regular starting appearances after three seasons with Plymouth Argyle, the future looks bright for the tall and athletic forward.

Living the dream
The slogan in the buld-up to the match was ‘one shot at glory’ and so it proved with Fallon’s goal the difference after a scoreless first-leg in Manama last month. After topping the Oceania qualification zone, New Zealand were faced with the prospect of overcoming Bahrain or missing South Africa with no chance for redemption.

“I saw the ‘82 team (being paraded around the ground) at the start of the warm up and I thought ‘we need to be in this world cup because these people are remembered for this long’,” said Fallon after the match. “(It was a case of) This is our greatest opportunity to do this and we can really do something good for the game and really change things in New Zealand."

It could have all been so different though with Bahrain goalkeeper Sayed Jaffar denying Fallon with a miraculous save from a near-identical position just minutes before the goal. “The first one (opportunity) I was quite upset with but I just prayed I would get another chance,” stated Fallon. “I always fancy myself when the boys put the balls in. I was visualising today and I just knew I could do it."

In the blood
Rory's father Kevin is a famous figure in New Zealand football, not only for his role in the legendary Spain 1982 qualification campaign, but also for a lengthy stint as All Whites boss. Despite a hard-nosed approach to the game, Kevin was reported to be in tears just prior to the match, to which Rory stated “that just goes to show how much it means to him.”

"I've got to thank him for all those trainings, waking up at six o'clock in the morning,” he continued. "And there's still more to go, I still have a lot more to accomplish. I just want to thank him for the time he's put into me." Invariably sought out for his views on the state of the game father Kevin was proud to talk on a subject closer to home than is usual: “Both from a coaching perspective and a parent's aspect, it's very, very emotional when your kid does something great, but this seems to be almost destiny," he said.

All Whites 1982 team skipper Steve Sumner perhaps summed it up the best: "What a proud moment for the Fallons. What a good player Rory is. We should bottle that blood!" But the final word goes to Rory who now will look to create another chapter in the history of New Zealand football. Asked if he would like England in New Zealand’s group in South Africa next year: “That would be my dream… England and Australia in the same group (with us).”

Story courtesy FIFA.com

Photo courtesy Getty Images

Debutants Switzerland were not at all troubled by the 60,000-plus hostile fans in Abuja’s hulking National Stadium, beating hosts and holders Nigeria 1-0 in the capital to hoist aloft the FIFA U-17 World Cup trophy on Sunday. The win, which came thanks to a steely defensive effort and a second-half header by Haris Seferovic, marks the first time a Swiss national team – any age, any gender – has ever laid claim to a FIFA title.

The hosts came out like a house on fire, putting heavy pressure on the Swiss and creating a handful of scoring chances inside the opening five minutes. First, Abdul Ajagun – hero of the quarter-final with the Koreans in Calabar – hit a wicked shot from 18 yards that Charyl Chappuis had to clear off the line. The Dolphin striker then repeated the dose just seconds later to give the Switzerland defence a real scare. Next, and after just four minutes, Aigbe Oliha’s effort from distance had Swiss goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist scrambling to turn it away.

A lengthy pause in the action – with injuries to Ajagun and Siegrist after a collision – marked the moment when the Swiss finally carved out their first chance. Predictably, it came on the end of a counter-attack in the 12th minute. Defender Janick Kamber roared into the attack and forced the diminutive Nigerian net-minder Dami Paul into a fine diving save.

Things settled down a bit after a ferocious opening quarter-hour, but the smashing and dynamic Nigerians continued to pile pressure on their stunned hosts. A nice piece of service from the right, after some fine interplay between Edafe Egbedi and Oliha, nearly picked out Sani Emmanuel. But the supersub-turned-starter failed to make proper contact with his header from six yards. With a little over five minutes to go in the opening period, Ramon Azeez had a good chance from a set-piece that he could only manage to blaze over the bar. Creating all the chances, but failing to convert, the Nigerians – who had an excellent chance through Emmanuel late in the dying moment – went into the changing rooms looking a little nervous, while the Swiss were happy just to be all-square.

The Swiss came out of their defensive shell at the start of the second half, and Haris Seferovic had a golden chance to put the Europeans into the lead in the 57th minute. Turning well at the edge of the area, the Grasshopper Zurich ace somehow conspired to hit his left-footed drive wide with the whole goal to shoot at. He made amends only sixth minutes later, however, when he leaped highest in the Nigerian penalty area to head a corner-kick over Paul and into the far corner for his fifth goal of the tournament.

The hosts, stunned into response, poured everything forward in a frenzied attack. In the end, though, the best efforts of Emmanuel, Ajagun and Okoro (who hit against the bar with a quarter-hour to go) failed to find a way through as the disappointed hosts miss out on claiming their fourth overall and second consecutive U-17 title. The Swiss, who win their first-ever international crown, can take tremendous pride in being the first team at these finals to keep the previously free-flowing hosts off the scoreboard.

Meanwhile in the 3rd/4th play-off, Spain beat Colombia 1-0 win in Abuja. A 75th minute goal by Isco was enough to give the Spaniards a podium finish.  

Story courtesy FIFA.com

As they gear up for their fourth consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup this week in Dubai, the word from the Solomon Islands’ camp is that the current squad has just the right blend of youth and experience.

The Oceania champions have failed to survive the group stages in all three of their previous attempts, but this year Solomon Islands coach Henry Koto has set his players the target of reaching the quarter-finals; this despite having been grouped alongside powerhouses Portugal and Uruguay, as well as hosts United Arab Emirates.

Speaking exclusively to FIFA.com, Koto said, “This isn’t the first time we’ve played in the World Cup – in fact it’ll be our fourth appearance. Consequently, our players have gained a great deal of experience from previous editions, which will help us achieve our goal of reaching the knockout phase.”

Asked for his thoughts on his Group A rivals, the coach said his charges would not be intimidated and were ready to do battle with anyone. “All three sides are good, but then so are we. We haven’t just come here to make up the numbers – we intend to compete. I believe the morale and togetherness of the squad will help us provide stiff competition.”

Solomon Islands’ opening fixture will be against Uruguay, a team they also ran up against at Rio de Janeiro 2006, when the South Americans won 10 – 5.

Looking ahead to the game Koto said, “The match against Uruguay will be very tough, especially as it’s the first game of the tournament. We played them in 2006, but we’re a different side now, and the players are keen to get off to a winning start.”

The 33-year-old believes his squad have a balance of youth and experience this time around, saying, “We’ve a lot of talent in the team, including some new faces and some old hands. James Naka is the elder statesman, having been with us since 2006, while Robert Laua, who’s very skillful, as well as very young, is our newest recruit.”

Koto added that the team’s successive appearances at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup have helped them develop not only their skills, but also the understanding between players. “The team has improved a lot since our maiden appearance in 2006. Back then we just weren’t good enough. Now, however, the experience we’ve accrued and our intensive training regime should make a difference.”

The coach concluded the interview with his tip for top honours in Dubai: Portugal are a very strong team and the Brazilians are excellent. Without doubt, these are the two best sides in the tournament.”

FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009

Solomon Islands schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Story courtesy FIFA.com

History is set to be created regardless of the victor in Saturday’s 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ Asia/Oceania play-off between New Zealand and Bahrain in Wellington. The New Zealand capital will play host to a match that will provide a new chapter in the annals of either New Zealand or Bahrain football.

For New Zealand, a win at the sold-out Westpac Stadium will mark the All Whites’s return to the global showpiece for the first time in 28 years since their FIFA World Cup debut at Spain 1982. Following a scoreless draw in Manama last month, visitors Bahrain know that a score draw will be enough to become the world’s smallest nation to progress to world football’s greatest stage.

After a resolute defensive showing in the first-leg, All Whites coach Ricki Herbert has vowed to show his team’s offensive strengths in what has been dubbed by local media as the nation’s “most important match in 27 years”. The visitors, despite failing to convert their dominance into a first-leg home win, have significant experience in their line-up and are led by wily Czech mentor Milan Macala.

The stakes
Bahrain enter the contest seeking their first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup but it is their second consecutive appearance in the intercontinental play-off stage. The Bahrainis narrowly losing to Trinidad and Tobago four years ago, when Dennis Lawrence famously headed the only goal in the second leg sealing the CONCACAF side’s qualification at the Gulf nation's expense. With another qualifying decider awaiting them, the Bahrainis know all too well that old lessons must be learned if they are to make amends this time around.

Though the home side have only limited recent experience against Asian opposition, the greatest moment in All Whites history is heavily intertwined with the continent. In the 15-match qualification campaign for Spain 1982, New Zealand stunned Saudi Arabia 5-0 before outstripping China 2-1 to book qualification. A regular fixture in the line-up was none other than current All Whites coach Ricki Herbert, whose experience in the emotion-charged atmosphere of a FIFA World Cup qualifier will be invaluable.

The preparation
Herbert has been blessed by the availability of all his players allowing the entire 18-man squad from the first leg in Manama to be retained. An added bonus is the recent scoring form of the overseas-based contingent, with even captain Ryan Nelsen grabbing a rare goal in Blackburn Rover's Premier League win last weekend. Also last weekend, striker Rory Fallon scored the winner against Doncaster which fired his Plymouth Argyle out of the drop zone in the English Championship. At the same time, Shane Smeltz continued his remarkable form in the A-League with the winner for Gold Coast United against leaders Sydney FC.

In contrast, Bahrain will sorely miss striker Ala’a Hubail, who tore cruciate ligaments in his right knee just days after the first-leg. Another forward, Hussail Ali is also in recovery mode from a knee injury, limiting Macala’s striking options. Despite the difficulties, the side skippered by Mohamed Salmeen proved they still have firepower after routing 2006 FIFA World Cup finalists Togo 5-1 in a recent friendly.

Players to watch
With a FIFA World Cup berth on the line, the Kiwis will be buoyed by a record 35,000 home crowd. Spearheading the attacking line will be the 28-year-old Smeltz, who won A-League's Golden Boot last season with 12 goals. He has maintained his prolific form this season, scoring eleven goals in only nine matches for Gold Coast United.

Ismail Abdullatif, who scored a brace against Togo, is expected to fill the breach left by Hubail’s absence. The form of Abdullatif could prove key with the 23-year-old scorer of the dramatic injury-time equaliser against Saudi Arabia in the Asian play-off to set up the meeting with against Kiwis.

The stat
6 – The number of countries Milan Macala has coached with the 66-year-old yet to take a nation to the FIFA World Cup.

The words
"There will be plenty of opportunities in the game and I expect it to be an open game. One goal may be enough for us but we never make it easy for ourselves," Milan Macala, Bahrain coach.

"We need to go into the game very much on the front foot and very positive. There needs to be that passion and adrenaline pumping through the veins or we haven't got the right people in the squad," Ricki Herbert, New Zealand coach.

Story courtesy FIFA.com

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

WELLINGTON – The All Whites ramped up their build up for Saturday’s FIFA World Cup playoff against Bahrain in an off-limits training session that included practicing penalties.

After three very public trainings at Endeavour Park in Whitby, New Zealand secreted themselves away to the slightly more secluded Newtown Park to run through set pieces.

At the same time as Bahrain’s private jet full of players, management and fans were touching down from the warmer climes of Sydney, the All Whites took turns at replicating the lonely journey from the halfway line to the penalty spot, just in case the tie reaches it’s most nerve-jangling climax.

Even the goalkeepers stepped up to take a spotkick to cover all possibilities.

Saturday’s second leg would need to finish goalless after 90 minutes, like the first leg in Manama, and remain so through 30 minutes of extra time for the match to go to a shootout, as a score draw would see

Bahrain progress on the away goals rule.

New Zealand must win the tie to return to the World Cup after a 27 year absence and the simpler equation has led to a positive mindset from Herbert and his players who are determined to get on the front foot early and take the match to the favoured Bahrainis.

Meanwhile, Simon Elliott upped his participation in training, including taking full part in some team drills as he races to recover from a hip injury.

New Zealand complete their on-field preparation with Friday night's official run at Westpac Stadium.

2010 FIFA World Cup
Asia/Oceania Playoff
Second Leg
New Zealand v Bahrain
8pm, November 14
Westpac Stadium, Wellington

New Zealand (from): 1-Mark PASTON (GK), 2-Aaron SCOTT, 3-Tony LOCHHEAD, 4-Ben SIGMUND, 5-Ivan VICELICH, 6-Ryan NELSEN (Captain), 7-Simon ELLIOTT, 8-Tim BROWN, 9-Shane SMELTZ, 10-Chris KILLEN, 11-Leo BERTOS, 12-Michael MCGLINCHEY, 13-Chris WOOD, 14-Rory FALLON, 15-David MULLIGAN, 16-Andrew BOYENS, 17-Andy BARRON, 18-James BANNATYNE (GK).
Coach: Ricki Herbert

Bahrain (from): 1-Sayed Mohamed Jaffar (GK), 2-Mohamed Husain Mohamed, 3-Ahmed Hassan Taleb, 4-Abdulla Baba Fatadi, 5-Mohamed Ahmed Hubail, 6-Hussain Salman Maki, 8-Jaycee John, 7-Sayed Mahmood Jala9-Hussain Ali Ahmed, , 10-Mohamed Ahmed Salmeen (captain), 11-Ismaeel Abdullatif Ismaeel, 12-Faouzi Mubarak Aaish, 13-Mahmood Abdulrahman Mohamed, 14-Salman Isa Ali, 15-Abdulla Ismaeel Omar, 16-Sayed Mohamed Adnan, 17-Husain Ali Hassan, 18-Abbas Ahmed Ali (GK), 22-Abdulla Mohamed Al-Kaabi (GK).
Coach: Milan Máčala

Story and photo couresy NZF Media

For the latest NZ Football news visit www.nzfootball.co.nz

The Solomon Islands beach soccer team has lost 1-3 to Switzerland in the first of two friendly matches in the Dubai this week ahead of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

Both warm up matches provide the Bilikiki a valuable opportunity to aclimatise to the hot conditions ahead of their opening World Cup match against Uruguay on Monday 16 November.

The FIFA tournament, which goes through until Sunday 22 November, includes 16 of the world's best beach soccer teams. It will be the fourth consecutive year that the Solomon Islands have represented Oceania at the event.

Bilikiki management were happy with the first up performance against a talented Switzerland side. The team will now look to try different strategies in the second friendly against the Europeans.

The matches follow on from a recent visit by Switzerland assistant coach Davor Ivcevic to the Solomon Islands to assist with preparations for the tournament. 

Ivcevic's tour was organised by Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) who have worked together to ensure the best possible build up for the Bilikiki.

As OFC’s representative on the world stage, the Solomon Islands will play alongside Ivory Coast and Nigeria (African qualifiers), Italy, Portugal, Russia, Spain and Switzerland (European qualifiers), Costa Rica and El Salvador (CONCACAF qualifiers), Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay (CONMEBOL qualifiers) plus Japan and Bahrain (Asian qualifiers) as well as the United Arab Emirates who gain automatic entry as hosts.

They will face tough competition in the first round of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup after being drawn in Group A alongside Portugal, Uruguay and hosts UAE.

FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009

Solomon Islands schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Cook Islands Football powerhouses Tupapa and Nikao Sokattak are locked together on equal points at the top of the Rarotonga Football Senior Men’s division after the conclusion of round four last weekend.

Matavera took the biggest upset of the round as they gained their first win five rounds into the season, 2-1 over Takuvaine at home. There were no further surprises, however, as highflying Nikao took a resounding 7–0 home win home against Titikaveka.

Rounding out the Men’s play on the weekend, Tupapa gained three valuable points by defeating Avatiu 1- 0 at Victoria Park on Saturday, leaving Avatiu languishing near the bottom of the points-table just ahead of Titikaveka.

In the Women’s Open, Titikaveka continued to top the points table after another win over Nikao, while Avatiu team upset Tupapa 2-1.

The Nikao U-16 Boys comfortably won their game against Titikaveka 2–0 while the Nikao U-14 Girls lost by the same score.

Matavera’s U-13 and U-16 Boys' teams lost their respective matches against Takuvaine 0 – 2 and 0–1.

In the Tupapa versus Avatiu game fixtures, Avatiu won the U-13 Boys match 2 – 0, but lost the U-14 Girl’s fixture 1 – 2. Tupapa also beat Avatiu 0 -3 in the U-16 Boy’s grade.

Round 5 gets underway in Rarotonga this Thursday.

Courtesy of CIFA Media

Strong performances by New Zealand referee Mike Hester and his assistants Tevita Makasina (TON) and Jan Hendrik Hintz (NZL) at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009 have led to the Oceania trio being appointed to the semi final match between Colombia and Switzerland on 12 November.

The trio have officiated in four matches over the course of the tournament while Hester has also been involved in a fifth match as fourth official.

Vanuatu’s Harry Atisson will oversee the semi final as referee assessor making it an important occasion for Oceania referees. Atisson says he is proud to be representing Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) at this time.

With appointments for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ still to be decided, the U-17 tournament acts as an important part of the screening process.

Hester, who has attended several FIFA events including the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa earlier this year, says he is enjoying the challenge.

"This tournament presents a realistic opportunity to press our claim for selection at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ but ultimately you’ve got to take it one match at a time so that’s our approach," said Hester.

A Lieutenant Commander in the New Zealand Navy, Hester started refereeing in 2001 but is already one of New Zealand’s most respected officials, refereeing age-group and senior internationals along with a host of New Zealand Football Championship matches.

Auckland City FC’s O-League defence is still on track after a 2-1 come-from-behind victory against New Caledonian club AS Magenta at Kiwitea Street on Sunday afternoon.

Two quick goals from Matt Williams and Daniel Koprivcic in the second half sealed the victory for City after an initial strike by 18-year-old Lamo Xewe had put the visitors ahead.

The defending champions are now two points clear of Waitakere United at the top of Group A while AS Magenta remain third ahead of Tahiti’s AS Manu Ura.

O-League newcomers Magenta will feel unlucky not to have picked up at least a point after going ahead in the 6th minute. New Caledonian international and dead-ball specialist Pierre Wajoka curled in a free-kick from the left for Noel Kaudre to flick onto Xewe who headed the ball past Paul Gothard from close range.

Auckland City almost had an equalizer two minutes later when Matt Williams headed a Ki Hyung Lee free-kick onto the cross bar for what proved to be their best chance of the half. The home side were then forced to make an early substitution as Alex Feneridis was carried off for a suspected ankle injury.

Magenta felt they had scored a second in the 36th minute when Xewe again headed home, this time from a Paul Poatinda cross, but the goal was called back for offside and the score remained 1-0 going into the break.

Adam Dickinson came on for Keryn Jordan at half-time and made an immediate impact teeing up Matt Williams inside the box for an easy side-footed equaliser in the 47th minute. Five minutes later Daniel Koprivcic broke free of his marker from a throw-in and placed the ball low past Jean Dounezeck for his fourth O-League goal.

Speaking after the match, coach Paul Posa paid credit to the New Caledonians and said his side were fortunate to get the result.

“They were technically very good and well organised so we’re pleased to get the 2-1win.”

Posa said it has been a juggling act getting his side ready for the current O-League and NZFC competitions as well as the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 which kicks off on 9 December in Abu Dhabi.

“We’ve been through a couple of intense weeks of training and that has affected how we’ve played but the aim is to come out fresh for the FIFA event next month.”

Meanwhile AS Magenta coach Alain Moizan is fully focused on the O-League and said his side have a renewed sense of belief after today’s match.

“We approached this game with some apprehension after seeing Auckland City beat AS Manu Ura 5-0 in their first match but now we have more hope and confidence that we can match them.”

While admitting that only a win is good enough at this level, Moizan said there were positives to take out of the performance.

“Noel Kaudre usually plays as a forward but he did very well for us in midfield and our youngster Lamo Xewe was particularly impressive.”

For match day three, AS Magenta will play AS Manu Ura while Auckland City and Waitakere United will feature in the top-of-the-table clash.

Auckland City FC: 2 (Matt WILLIAMS 47, Daniel KOPRIVCIC 51)
AS Magenta: 1 (Lamo XEWE 6)
Half-time: 0-1
Sunday 8 November 2009
Kiwitea St
Auckland, New Zealand

2010 O-LEAGUE TABLE

Group A

Group B

Welcome to Kiwitea Street in Auckland for the 2010 O-League clash between Auckland City FC and AS Magenta.

Conditions are nice with fine weather and light wins as both the teams are now walking out to the field for this Group A match.

Please refresh your browser regularly to keep up with all the action.

The starting line-ups for Auckland City FC and AS Magenta are as follows:

Auckland City FC: 18. Paul GOTHARD  [GK], 3. Ian HOGG, 5. Matt WILLIAMS, 6. Ki-Hyung LEE, 7. James PRITCHETT, 11. Daniel KOPRIVCIC, 13. Alex FENERIDIS, 14. Keryn JORDAN, 15. Ivan VICELICH, 16. Jason HAYNE, 20. Greg UHLMANN
Substitutes: 1. Jacob SPOONLEY  [GK], 4. Sam CAMPBELL, 8. Chad COOMBES, 10. Grant YOUNG, 17. Adam McGEORGE, 22. Adam DICKINSON
Coach: Paul POSA [NZL]

AS Magenta: 1. Jean Yan DOUNEZECK [GK], 2. Benjamin LONGUE, 7. Noel KAUDRE, 9. Paul POATINDA, 10. Pierre WAJOKA, 14. Jules WEA, 15. Steeven LONGUE, 17. Andre SINEDO, 24. Lamo XEWE, 25. Joris GORENDIAWE, 32. Ludovic BOIT
Substitutes: 4. Emmanuel DIANAI, 6. Jedidja SAIKO,  11. Albert ITREMA, 28. Michel UREGEI, 29. Theodore KAUDRE, 33. Philippe KOKONE
Coach: Alain MOIZAN [NCL]

0' KICK-OFF

4' Auckland City FC have a free kick from the half-way line. Ki Hyung Lee takes and Ivan Vicelich wins the header but AS Magenta manage to clear the ball

6' GOAL Auckland City FC 0 AS MAGENTA 1 Lamo Xewe puts the New Caledonians ahead. Pierre Wajoka curled the ball in with his left from a free kick and Noel Kaudre flicked the ball onto Xewe to head home from close range

8' Auckland City almost have an equaliser with another free kick by Lee which Matt Williams heads onto the cross bar and the ball goes out for a goal kick

11' Auckland City have the first corner of the game from the left. Lee puts in a dangerous ball to the near post but the ball misses everyone

15' Xewe drives the ball in from the left and Greg Uhlmann can only head the ball out for AS Magenta's first corner

16' The AS Magenta corner is cleared easily by Vicelich

20' Joris Gorendiawe is put in the clear down the left but is called offside

24' Auckland have another corner this time from the right. Lee takes and the ball eventually falls to Jason Hayne who blasts the ball over the cross bar from the edge of the area

28' There is a break in play after Alex Feneridis went down with an injury. He is now receiving treatment off the field

29' Lee takes another corner for Auckland but AS Magenta clear the ball

31' SUBSTITUTION Alex Feneridis is limping away to the changing rooms with what looks like a serious injury. He has been replaced by Adam McGeorge

34' Jason Hayne beats his player down the left but goalkeeper Jean Yan Dounezeck comes out to cut down the angle and Hayne's shot rolls out out for a goalkick

36' AS Magenta's Paul Poatinda plays a nice ball across from the right and Xewe heads home past goalkeeper Paul Gothard but the goal is called back for offside

42' Lee takes a free kick from deep inside AS Magenta territory. His cross is just over Vicelich's head at the near post and the ball is cleared

HALF-TIME

46' KICK-OFF

46' SUBSTITUTION Keryn Jordan is replaced by Adam Dickinson for Auckland City

47' GOAL Auckland City FC 1 AS Magenta 1 Matt Williams scores an equaliser from close range after a nice head down from the substitute Adam Dickinson

50' AS Magenta have a free-kick from just outside the box. Xewe takes but hits the ball just over the bar

52' GOAL Auckland City FC 2 AS Magenta 1 Daniel Koprivcic scores straight from a throw in with a well placed side-footed shot

56' Lee takes a corner from the right but it goes straight back out for another corner

57' Lee strikes another one and the ball is cleared

60' SUBSTITUTION Ludovic Boit is replaced by Philippe Kokone for AS Magenta

70' YELLOW CARD Andre Sinedo brings down Koprivcic down the left-hand side and is cautioned

73' SUBTITUTION Auckland City makes their final substitution with Chad Coombes coming on for James Pritchett

74' Daniel Korpivcic gets into the box down the right but then loses the ball when he could have crossed it into Hayne

77' Hayne wins the ball from his marker on the right and has a shot from a tight angle but Dounezeck makes a juggling save

84' McGeorge has a left-foot shot from just outside the box centre field but blasts it over the top

85' SUBTITUTION Jedidja Saiko replaces the goal scorer Lamo Xewe

FULL-TIME Auckland City FC 2 AS Magenta 1

Lautoka, Tafea FC and Waitakere United have all picked up three points on match day two of the 2010 O-League with Auckland City FC and AS Magenta still to play their match on Sunday.

Waitakere kicked things off with a solid 2-0 home victory against a well-organised AS Manu Ura at Fred Taylor Park in Auckland on Saturday afternoon taking them to the top of Group A.

O-League newcomers Lautoka are now leading Group B with a second straight away win, this time against Hekari United at Port Moresby Rugby League Stadium. After a penalty goal by Hekari in the first half, the Fijians fought back to secure victory with second half goals to Valerio Nawatu and Apisai Smith.

It was another close encounter at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara where Marist suffered a second home defeat going down 0-2 to Vanuatu's Tafea.


2010 O-LEAGUE RESULTS [MATCH DAY 2]

Waitakere United: 2 (Benjamin TOTORI 55, Brent FISHER 86)
AS Manu Ura: 0
Half-time: 0-0
Saturday 7 November 2009
Fred Taylor Park
Auckland, New Zealand

Hekari United FC: 1 (Kema JACK 28)
Lautoka: 2 (Valerio NAWATU 69, Apisai SMITH 76)
Half-time: 0-1
Saturday 7 November 2009
PMRL Stadium
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Marist FC: 0
Tafea FC: 2 (Francois SAKAMA 48, Etienne MERMER 51)
Half-time: 0-0
Saturday 7 November 2009
Lawson Tama Stadium
Honiara, Solomon Islands

Still to be played:

Auckland City FC vs. AS Magenta
Sunday 8 November 2009
Kiwitea St
Auckland, New Zealand
Local kick-off: 15H00

2010 O-LEAGUE TABLE

Group A

Group B

Welcome to Fred Taylor Park for match day two of the 2010 O-League featuring Waitakere United and Tahiti's AS MAnu Ura.

Conditions are excellent here in Auckland with light cloud and a moderate cross-field wind. Both teams will be eager for a result to stay in contention in Group A.

Today's action also includes Marist FC vs. Tafea FC in Honiara, while Hekari United FC host Lautoka in Port Moresby. oceaniafootball.com will endeavour to bring you all the latest scores and results as they happen. 

Please refresh your browser regularly to keep up with all the action.

The starting line-ups for Waitakere United and AS Manu Ura are as follows:

Waitakere United: 1. Danny ROBINSON  [GK], 2. Jason ROWLEY, 3. Aaron SCOTT, 4. Tim MYERS, 8. Brent FISHER, 9. Benjamin TOTORI, 10. Allan PEARCE, 11. Neil SYKES, 13. Dimas DA SILVA, 14. Jeremy CHRISTIE, 17. Jake BUTLER
Substitutes: 5. Ash SOLLY, 6. Graham PEARCE, 7. Martin BULLOCK, 19. Dakota LUCAS, 21. Keegan LINDERBOOM, 22. Liam LITTLE  [GK], 26. Jason HICKS

AS Manu Ura: 1. Jonathan TOROHIA  [GK], 2. Henri TAPEA, 3. Rex FAURA, 7. Tetahio AURAA, 9. Jean-Francois KABEU, 10. Auguste WASHETINE, 11. Hiashi KAKE, 12. Hiroana POROIEA, 14. Stephane TUAIRAU, 20. Billy MATAITAI, 22. Fraddy TAUIHARA
Substitutes:5. Philippe MORETA, 6. Aldo TAUIHARA, 15. Henri CHANON, 16. Daniel TAPETA  [GK], 19. Heitini TUPEA

0' KICK-OFF

2' Neil Sykes takes a free-kick for the home side from deep in AS Manu Ura territory but goalkeeper Jonathan Torohia manages to punch the ball clear 

4' Down the other end, AS Manu Ura have a good chance with link-up play from Auguste Washetine and Billy Mataitai but the striker's attempted lob is straight into the hands of Danny Robinson

7' First corner of the game goes to Waitakere. Sykes takes but Torohia claims it easily

9' Another corner for Waitakere but same result

12' Benjamin Totori wins the ball well on the left hand side and sets off on a run into the box. With two waiting inside he elects to go alone but loses the ball

14' Neil Sykes takes a third straight corner from the right hand side but again Torohia gets both hands on it this time at the back post

16' Jean-Francois Kabeu shows his pace with a 50 metre run down the left for AS Manu Ura. His cross finds captain Tetahio Auraa whose first-time volley is saved

18' AS Manu Ura are lucky not to go down a goal after Dimas Da Silva's shot from just inside the box hits the side netting

19' Waitakere have an even better chance with Allan Pearce side-footing the ball across from the left for Brent Fisher whose shot from close range is saved well by Torohia going low to his left

22' A fourth consecutive corner for Waitakere from the right but again the goalkeeper takes it cleanly

27' Totori puts a ball through for Fisher who is caught offside

28' YELLOW CARD AS Manu Ura's Auguste Washetine is cautioned by referee Kevin Docherty

30' AS Manu Ura's Stephane Tuairau takes a shot from deep after the ball is cleared to him but the ball goes wide.

34' YELLOW CARD Fraddy Tauihara brings down Allan Pearce just outside the box centre field and is shown yellow

35' The resulting free-kick is taken by Jeremy Christie. His powerful shot makes it over the wall but is punched clear by Torohia

38' Washetine is put in the clear from a deep free-kick but his touch is just too heavy and Robinson comes out to smother the ball

43' Allan Pearce makes a nice run down the left and puts a dangerous ball across intended for Fisher but defender Hiroiana Poroiea just manages to put the ball out for a corner

44' Waitakere take a corner from the left but it goes out for another corner.

45' This time from the right hand side, Torohia once again claims a Sykes corner

HALF-TIME

46' KICK-OFF

46' Totori takes a shot with his left foot from just outside the box but gets no power on it. AS Manu Ura goalkeeper easily collects

48' Da Silva beats his marker down the left but is tackled by the second defender inside the box

52' Kabeu turns well to beat his player on the right and passes the ball forward to Hiashi Kake but the AS Manu Ura striker is offside

55' GOAL Waitakere United 1 AS Manu Ura 0 Benjamin Totori puts Waitakere ahead. Pearce put a nice ball in from the left for Fisher to lightly flick the ball on to the Solomon Island midfielder who finished well from close range

64' SUBSTITUTION Aldo Tauihara replaces Billy Mataitai for AS Manu Ura

65' YELLOW CARD The substitute Aldo Tauihara is cautioned

68' SUBSTITUTION Martin Bullock replaces Dimas Da Silva for Waitakere

70' SUBSTITUTION Phillippe Moreta replaces Stephane Tuairau for AS Manu Ura 

72' Sykes puts a nice ball through for Fisher who is clear on goal but the striker is unlucky to be called offside

73' SUBSTITUTION Dakota Lucas replaces Allan Pearce for Waitakere

80' Bullock puts the ball over the top from close range after a low cross by Lucas from the right

82' SUBSTITUTION Heitini Tupea replaces AS Manu Ura captain Tetahio Auraa

86' PENALTY GOAL Waitakere United 2 AS Manu Ura Brent Fisher converts from the spot after being fouled by Fraddy Tauihara

87' SUBSTITUTION Waitakere make their last substitution with Jason Hicks replacing Benjamin Totori

90'+2 YELLOW CARD AS Manu Ura's Henri Tapea is cautioned for a dangerous tackle

FULL-TIME Waitakere United 2 AS Manu Ura 0