TAHITI OPEN ACCOUNT WITH WIN

Tahiti opened up their international Futsal account with a 3-1 win over Tuvalu in the final game of Match Day Two in the OFC Futsal Championships in Suva, Fiji.

Tuvalu and Tahiti are both new to the Futsal code and it was a game of firsts with both sides finding their first international goal in an international match

Tahiti survived an early scare when Tuvalu target Imo Fiamalua opened the scoring in the 11th minute, blasting a freekick through the wall and into the Tahiti net.

But Tahiti were quick to respond and three minutes later Michael Maihuri levelled the scores with a well placed drive from just outside the box.

Maihuri gave Tahiti the lead three minutes later with a free kick of his own blistering the Tuvalu net and the bench of Tahiti players and officials reacted in euphoric celebration.

Steeven Tino put the icing on the cake for Tahiti when he found the net from close range with 42 seconds left on the clock.

Tahiti coach Rani Bea was pleased with the result but was looking for a better performance from his side.

“We were looking for a better performance and I think the boys were a little stressed out over their first game.

“Most of our players are from a small island in Rapa and they are not used to this kind of competition. This was their first time in a big stadium.

“We need to play easier and play as we practice. But it is always difficult in the first game and I think their confidence will grow as the tournament does.”

“I was very happy with the way the bench contributed today and was very happy with the win.”

Tuvalu coach Sami Neemia was quick to admit his team didn’t stick to their game plan tonight.

“The boys have shaken off their nerves but they are still taking time to adjust to playing on this surface that they are not used to. I think the boys are ready to do some damage in the few remaining games.

“In general Tuvalu football and futsal  is developing very quickly and I think we will be a major threat at these events in the future.”

TUV: 5.Mau PENISULA; 9. Starchel SOLOSENI; 8. Peniuna KAITU; 6. Paitela KELEMENE; 1. Sopepe TAILOLO (GK);

SUBS: 2. Felo FEOTO; 3. Tioti Maati TOAFA; 17. Neemia ONOSEMU; 19. Mahanga TEIAPUTI; 11. Imo FIAMALUA; 21. Maio ETIMANI; 10. Semalie FOTU

Coach: Sami NEEMIA (TUV)

TAH: 1. Rehia DAVIO (GK); 3. Jimmy RIARIA; 4. Romeo PATIRA; 6. Michel MAIHURI; 7. Steeven TINO;

SUBS: 2. Matana BEA; 5. Lysis TAUHA; 8. Tetuanui TINOMOE; 9. Lorama BEA; 10. Usiera PUKOKI; 11. Amau TETUANUI; 12. Fernand TUANUA;

Coach: Rani BEA (TAH)

Photos by Marc Peretic Wilson