The Solomon Islands have been knocked out of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai after going down 1-6 to a classy Portuguese side in their final Group A match on Wednesday.

With everything to play for, both sides were ready to do battle on the beach, each having suffered disappointing group-stage losses the previous day. Within just seconds, magic Madjer had put Portugal ahead. The Solomon Islands nearly got a goal of their own on the ensuing kick-off, but the tone was set and few bright spots followed for the Bilikiki.

Soon thereafter, Belchior crushed a bullet just wide of the post, as goalkeeper and captain Fred Hale seemed continuously involved in the action. Finally, another got through and the shots kept coming, one glancing off the post, another batted away by Hale. The Solomon Islands seemed ready and willing to get back in the game, but it was beginning to look as if it would be a very long afternoon for them.

There was a bright spot for the Solomon Islands when Gibson Hosea slipped a clinical shot from distance just inside the post. But Portugal eventually extended their lead to five. After a rocky start, Portugal have qualified for the quarter-finals of Dubai 2009, while the Bilikiki Boys bid a fond farewell to Jumeirah Beach.

The Solomon Islands can go home with their heads held high after picking up three points in what was an extremely tough group. The team's 7-6 victory over South American powerhouse Uruguay - a team ranked 4th in the world - was a proud day for the Oceania representative.

Henry Koto and his side will now look ahead to the future and work hard to qualify for their fifth consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.  

FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009
Solomon Islands results

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

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE
1-7 (1-2, 0-3, 0-2)

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands
6-1 (3-0, 0-0, 3-0)

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

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The Solomon Islands are preparing for their crucial final group match against Portugal at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai on Wednesday and will have a whole nation behind them as they try to qualify for the quarter-final.

The Bilikiki also has the full backing of sporting brand Lotto who recently signed a new sponsorship deal with the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) to ensure the team is well equipped going into tournaments such as this one.

Lotto has provided thousands of dollars worth of equipment to help with preparations and New Zealand-based General Manager Blair Dawkins says the investment is well worth it.

“Beach soccer is an exciting new sport that has taken off in the Solomon Islands and throughout the Pacific. We want to be a part of that and show our support by sponsoring this successful team that has made it to the FIFA finals for a fourth consecutive time,” said Dawkins, who has been involved in the sporting goods industry for over 20 years.

“We wish the team the very best of luck as they compete against Portugal on Wednesday for a place in the quarter-final."

Group A has proven to be the most evenly balanced group in the tournament, with each team picking up three points and all still in with a chance to progress going into the final day.

A victory for the Solomon Islands will see them make history by becoming the first Oceania nation to go through to the knock-out stages of a FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. 

But after Tuesday's defeat at the hands of Uruguay, Portugal will also be hungry for a win. The Portuguese have proven too strong for the Solomon Islands on two previous occasions during the 2006 and 2008 group stages.

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
1-7 (1-2, 0-3, 0-2)

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

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

 

The Solomon Islands have lost 1-7 to the United Arab Emirates in their second match at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai on Tuesday.

After a dramatic 7-6 win against Urugay in their opening match, the Bilikiki could not follow that up with another win as the hosts proved too strong in front of a home crowd.  

UAE, desperate for three points after a heart-breaking loss to Portugal on day one, struck moments into the match to signal their intentions, as a melodic symphony from synchronised voices and assorted instruments cascaded down from their supporters. Karim Albalooshi was the goal-getter and he struck again soon after Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Fred Hale had slipped a long shot under UAE goalkeeper Abbas Hussain to draw his side level.

Ibrahim Albalooshi’s direct-kick could not find its way through, but UAE continued to test their luck as the first period drew to a close, sending a number of well-taken shots goalward. And with just twelve seconds gone in the second period, Ibrahim Albalooshi put one in for UAE. Crafty forays forward followed from both sides, before Bakhit Alabadla and then Rami Al Mesaabi added a couple more for UAE.

Qambar Sadeqi drew gasps as his crushing strike found the back of the net midway through the final period, as Solomon Islands were forced to grow comfortable with the idea of sharing top spot in Group B. As UAE tallied another, it hardly seemed necessary, but the flag-waving UAE supporters did not seem to mind.

UAE face Uruguay tomorrow as the group stages draw to a close, while Solomon Islands have the challenging task of contending with a Portugal side eager for another win.

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
1-7 (1-2, 0-3, 0-2)

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

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

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

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

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

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

O-League action continues this weekend as Auckland City FC and Lautoka look to stay top of Group A and Group B respectively while the rest of the eight-team field play catch-up football.

Match Day Two kicks off on Saturday with the Group A clash between Waitakere United and Tahiti’s AS Manu Ura at Fred Taylor Park in Auckland. Both teams will be eager to put their previous matches behind them as the two-time champions Waitakere could only manage a 1-1 draw against AS Magenta and the Tahitians went down 0-5 to title holders Auckland City.

Roy Krishna and Vetea Tepa will both miss the game after receiving red cards in their respective first round matches while Waitakere player-coach Neil Emblen is still serving a carry-over suspension from last season. Waitakere will also be without their Young All Whites who have progressed to the second round at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Nigeria.

Crossing over to Papua New Guinea for Group B, Hekari United FC will host Fiji’s Lautoka on Saturday at Port Moresby Rugby League Stadium. Hekari fought hard for a 3-3 draw against Tafea FC in Port Vila on match day one and could leap-frog Lautoka into first place with a win on Saturday. David Muta, Kema Jack and Benjamin Mela all impressed during their first outing and will again be key players for the home side.

Lautoka will be full of confidence after a classy display in their debut O-League match beating Marist FC 3-1. The Fijians will be eager to consolidate their lead with a follow-up away result.

In the other Group B match, Marist have a chance to redeem themselves on Saturday with a second straight home match at Lawson Tama Stadium, this time against Vanuatu club champions Tafea FC. Coach Patrick Miniti is confident his side will bounce back from their first up defeat with the support of an empassioned home crowd likely to reach 15,000. The Solomon Islands have a strong O-League history to preserve after representatives Kossa FC and Koloale FC finished runners-up in the previous two editions.

Tafea FC meanwhile will go into the match hoping for maximum points to potentially go top of Group B. The team remains largely unchanged from the first round with only Hubert Nake left out of the travelling squad.

Finally it’s back to Auckland on Sunday for the Group A clash between Auckland City FC and AS Magenta. Former Waitakere striker Daniel Korivcic will be keen to add to his goal tally for Auckland after an impressive hat-trick against AS Manu Ura on Match Day One. The only change from that squad will be Paul Urlovic replaced by Grant Young who has recovered well from a hamstring injury.

AS Magenta will be without star midfielder Pierre Wajoka and Andre Sinedo who are both tied up with personal commitments while former Ligue 1 defender Benjamin Longue is under an injury cloud. Coming into the squad is former New Caledonian international Steeven Longue, brother to Benjamin, plus Theodore Kaudre and Albert Itrema.


2010 O-LEAGUE – MATCH DAY 2 PREVIEW

This is the Official Preview for Match Day 1. Please note squads are subject to change.

Media wishing to attend any O-League match should contact the respective home club contact prior to match day. Media are encouraged to use these contacts for further club specific information or clarification.

Waitakere United [NZL] vs. AS Manu Ura [TAH]
Saturday 7 November 2009
Fred Taylor Park
Auckland, New Zealand
Local kick-off: 15H00

Referee: Kevin DOCHERTY [AUS]
Assistant Referee 1: Nick VAN SELM [NZL]
Assistant Referee 2: Glen LOCHRIE [NZL]
Fourth Official: Jamie CROSS [NZL]

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

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



Hekari United FC [PNG] vs. Lautoka [FIJ]
Saturday 7 November 2009
PMRL Stadium
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Local kick-off: 15H00

Referee: John SAOHU [SOL]
Assistant Referee 1: Hilary ANI [PNG]
Assistant Referee 2: David CHARLES [PNG]
Fourth Official: Job Ponis MINAN [PNG]

Hekari United FC: 3. Tagaya LEPANI, 4. Cyril MUTA, 5. Brian TUHIANA, 7. Benjamin MELA, 8. Michael FOSTER, 9. Tuimasi MANUCA, 11. Joachim WAROI, 12. David MUTA, 13. Andrew LEPANI, 15. Charles PARANDA, 17. Kema JACK, 18. Eric KOMENG, 20. Gure GABINA  [GK], 23. Samuel KINI, 24. Kluivert DAGI, 27. Desmond WALUKA  [GK], 30. Pita BALEITOGA
Coach: Jerry ALLEN [SOL]  

Lautoka: 1. James CHRONOPOULOS  [GK], 2. Samuela KAUTOGA, 3. Keni DOIDOI, 4. Samuela VULA, 6. Malakai WAQA, 7. Valerio NAWATU, 8. Ilatia TUILAU, 9. Nahuel ARRARTE, 10. Kamal HASSAN, 11. Sailesh SAMY, 13. Apisai SMITH, 15. Marika ROBANAKADAVU, 17. Arvindra NAIDU, 19. Leone VURUKANIA, 22. Aliverti BALELOA  [GK], 27. Salesh KUMAR
Coach: Imdad ALI [FIJ]



Marist FC [SOL] vs. Tafea FC [VAN]
Saturday 7 November 2009
Lawson Tama Stadium
Honiara, Solomon Islands
Local kick-off: 15H00

Referee: Andrew ACHARI [FIJ]
Assistant Referee 1: Matthew TARO [SOL]
Assistant Referee 2: Jackson NAMO [SOL]
Fourth Official: Nelson SOGO [SOL]

Marist FC: 1. Michael KOUMA [GK], 2. Chrisanto MISIGA, 4. Emmanuel POILA, 5. David HOUPERE, 6. Michael PATITI, 7. Joseph LANI, 8. John WAYNE, 9. Abraham INIGA, 10. Michael MISITANA, 11. Commins MENAPI, 12. Clifford HUTA, 13. Lenson BISILI, 15. Joe LUWI, 16. Martin RUHASIA, 18. Tolei Ini KOPURIA, 19. Johan Firisi DOIWALE, 20. Navusu KITU  [GK], 21. Charlie TANIRO
Coach: Patrick MINITI [SOL]

Tafea FC: 1. Alfred MALAS  [GK], 3. Jacques MAFIL NAWAN, 4. Roger JOE, 5. Silas NAMATAK, 6. Fredy VAVA, 7. Moise POIDE, 9. Jean Nako NAPRAPOL, 10. Richard IWAI, 11. Etienne MERMER, 13. Francois SAKAMA, 14. Asi DANIEL, 15. Jonah TURU, 16. Alphonse QORIG, 17. Geoffrey GETE, 18. Robert TOM, 19. Michell KALTAK, 20. Len MERKA [GK]
Coach: Graham DEMAS [VAN]



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

Referee: Rakesh VARMAN [FIJ]
Assistant Referee 1: Mark RULE [NZL]
Assistant Referee 2: Jacqueline STEPHENSON [NZL]
Fourth Official: Chris KERR [NZL]

Auckland City FC: 1. Jacob SPOONLEY  [GK], 3. Ian HOGG, 4. Sam CAMPBELL, 5. Matt WILLIAMS, 6. Ki-Hyung LEE, 7. James PRITCHETT, 8. Chad COOMBES, 10. Grant YOUNG, 11. Daniel KOPRIVCIC, 13. Alex FENERIDIS, 14. Keryn JORDAN, 15. Ivan VICELICH, 16. Jason HAYNE, 17. Adam McGEORGE, 18. Paul GOTHARD  [GK], 20. Greg UHLMANN, 21. Riki VAN STEEDEN, 22. Adam DICKINSON
Coach: Paul POSA [NZL]

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

2010 O-LEAGUE TABLE

Group A

2010 O-LEAGUE RESULTS

Group A
17/10/09       Auckland City FC vs. AS Manu Ura      5-0
24/10/09       Waitakere United vs. AS Magenta      1-1

Group B
17/10/09       Tafea FC vs. Hekari United FC            3-3
18/10/09       Marist FC vs. Lautoka                         1-3      
 

2010 O-LEAGUE – LEADING GOAL-SCORERS

3 – Daniel KOPRIVCIC
1 – Nahuel ARRART
1 – Chad COOMBES
1 – Brent FISHER
1 – Kamal HASSAN
1 – Abraham INIGA
1 – Kema JACK
1 – Samuela KAUTOGA
1 – Tuimasi MANUCA
1 – Benjamin MELA
1 – Silas NAMATAK
1 – François SAKAMA
1 – Robert TOM
1 – Ivan VICELICH

The Solomon Islands national beach soccer team has received another preparation boost ahead of the upcoming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai from 16-22 November.

Known as the Bilikiki, the national side will depart for the United Arab Emirates on Friday - one week earlier than originally scheduled.

Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) General Secretary Eddie Ngava confirmed this week that the team will have one week for friendly matches and training in Dubai before the tournament.

“SIFF and Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) are working together to ensure that the team has the best training possible,” said Ngava.

“As part of the team’s preparation an expert overseas coach has come in to assist the team locally and they will also have three friendly matches in Dubai before the World Cup kicks off, hence, their early departure."

The team completed a week of training with Switzerland assistant beach soccer coach Davor Ivcevic last week. Feedback from the players was positive with several crediting Ivecic for giving them a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

The Bilikiki went into training straight after winning the OFC Beach Soccer Championship Tahiti Nui in July and maintained a steady schedule.

Team Manager Rueben Oimae told local media this week that he is satisfied that his squad has shown excellent application to their required training regime and this dedication has lifted the quality of their play accordingly.

“Our aim is to reach the second round and we have put all our training towards achieving that,” Oimae said.

The Bilikiki are in a highly challenging Pool D along with United Arab Emirates, Uruguay and former champions Portugal. This will be Solomon Islands fourth consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup appearance.

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

Courtesy of SIFF Media

Marist Football Club coach Patrick Miniti says his team has exorcised its demons after a disappointing first round O-League defeat at home by Lautoka FC last month.

Marist will be desperate to take maximum points from its next O-League match against Vanuatu champions Tafea FC when the two meet on Saturday 7 November at Lawson Tama Stadium.

The Solomon Island champions fell 1-3 to Lautoka FC in front of 12,000 dismayed Honiara fans on 18 October.

But Miniti says his team will be looking forward with optimism and determination despite widespread public dismay following the loss to Lautoka FC.

“It will be a difficult task for us but we cannot afford to walk away empty handed from this game,’ Miniti said.

Miniti concedes that certain areas of Marist’s game suffered in their season opening home match but is confident his team is back on track for their all-important second home match.

“The team has worked towards a better result and we look forward to our next match,” Miniti said. 

“We know that Tafea FC will be very fast and our defense will have to be at its best if we are to gain anything from this match.”

Marist’s captain Abraham Iniga has issued a rallying call to the Solomon Islands public pleading for renewed passionate home support against Tafea FC.

“We carry not only the Marist flag but also a national responsibility and we urge the public to back us in our next match,” Iniga said.

The Solomon Islands have a strong O-League history to preserve after representatives Kossa FC and Koloale FC finished runners-up in the previous two editions.

Saturday's match will be crucial for Marist as they fight to stay in contention in Group B. Lautoka currently leads the group on three points with Papua New Guinea's Hekari United and Tafea FC in second place after their 3-3 draw in Port Vila last month while Marist are languishing at the bottom of the table.

Meanwhile in Group A, Auckland City FC sit top ahead of AS Magenta and Waitakere United on one point and AS Manu Ura who are yet to get a result.

Courtesy of SIFF Media

The Solomon Island Bilikiki are receiving expert assistance from a seasoned European beach soccer coach in Honiara this week ahead of their trip to Dubai next month for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2009.

Davor Ivcevic, assistant coach and squad member of Switzerland's beach soccer team, arrived on Monday and will take the Bilikiki through an intensive one-week training programme. 

Switzerland will also participate in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, which kicks off on 16 November and involves 16 of the world's best teams.  

Eddie Ngava, General Secretary of the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF), says that his goal is for the team to have the best training possible before departing for the FIFA tournament. Ngava also confirmed that SIFF has made plans for the team to arrive one week prior to the World Cup in order for Ncevic to join the team in Dubai and oversee further training and acclimatisation.

SIFF requested a professional coach through Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) earlier this year to assist the team after it won the OFC Beach Soccer Championship Tahiti Nui in August and qualified for their fourth consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

SIFF initially requested Switzerland’s head coach, Angelo Schirinzi, who ruled himself out due to commitments with their national side. Schirinzi then appointed Ncevic to help out the Solomon squad on his behalf.

Ivcevic says that his training program will largely focus on the tactical aspects of beach soccer. When asked to nominate specific areas of the Bilikiki’s play that require improvement Ncevic says he will work on the team’s defence and finishing.

"I am satisfied with the skill level of the players but I think more work needs to be done in areas like making use of space as a tactic and other advanced team techniques," Ivcevic said.

Bilikiki team manager Rueben Oimae says that he is very happy with the arrival of Ivcevic.

"I think the team will benefit a lot from his work here," Oimae said.

The Bilikiki will be in a training camp for the entirety of Vcevics’ visit this week and are undertaking two intensive training sessions per day.

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.



Bilikiki coach Henry Koto (left) with Swiss coach Davor Ivcevic

Fifteen goals have already been scored in the 2010 O- League as Auckland City FC and Lautoka stormed to victory on Match Day 1 of the competition to go top of Group A and Group B respectively.

The season kicked off at Auckland’s Kiwitea Street on Saturday with defending champions Auckland City cruising to a 5-0 win over Tahiti’s AS Manu Ura in Group A. Daniel Koprivcic led the way with a second-half hat-trick on debut for the club.

Auckland City coach Paul Posa says he was pleased to pick up maximum points in the season opener and is delighted to be involved in another O-League campaign.

“O-League is great because it raises the standards,” said Posa, who took over from Colin Tuaa midway through last season in a caretaker role and is now leading the club in a British-type manager’s role.

“To play different teams with different styles – we learn from that and they learn from us which I think is a great thing.”

Auckland City started well in the wet conditions going ahead in the 18th minute when All Whites defender Ivan Vicelich climbed high at the near post to head home Ki-Hyung Lee’s corner.

Chad Coombes took Auckland City’s lead out to 2-0 at half-time before Koprivcic stole the show in the second half. The former Waitakere United striker grabbed the first of his three in the 69th minute when he out-muscled his marker on the edge of the area and slotted the ball low past goalkeeper Daniel Tapeta. He scored his second in the 80th minute shortly before AS Manu Ura’s Vetea Tepa was sent off for an off-the-ball incident. Koprivcic then completed his hat-trick with a coolly-taken penalty in injury time.

Kicking off in Port Vila shortly after the Kiwitea clash was the opening Group B match between Tafea FC and Hekari United FC. The 4,000 local faithful at Municipal Stadium were given plenty to cheer in the opening minute of the game when Silas Namatak curled the ball top corner from just outside the area.

Tafea doubled their lead in the 34th minute through Robert Tom before three goals were scored in the space of five minutes just before half-time. Striker Kema Jack grabbed a double in quick succession before Vanuatu international Francois Sakama hit back in the 45th minute to give the home side a 3-2 advantage. Benjamin Mela made it 3-3 five minutes after the break and the score remained unchanged. 

On Sunday around 15,000 fans turned out at Honiara’s Lawson Tama Stadium to support Marist FC as they faced a determined Lautoka side in the second Group B match.

Making their O-League debut, Lautoka got off to the perfect start going ahead in the 14th minute when Kamal Hassan headed home after a weak punch out from goalkeeper Fred Hale off a corner. Another strong header, this time from Samuela Kautoga put the visitors two goals clear in the 20th minute, a lead they kept going into the break.

Marist substitute Michael Patiti came on for Joe Luwi midway through the second half and made an immediate impact with a blistering run down the right to set up Abraham Iniga for an easy tap in. The stage was set for a dramatic finish in what was turning out to be a fiercely competitive encounter with no fewer than seven yellow cards issued. But it wasn’t to be for the home side as Lautoka defended well in the dying stages and grabbed a third goal in injury time through Nahuel Arrart.

It was the first home defeat for a Solomon Island club in the O-League since 2007 when ironically it was Marist who again found themselves on the wrong side of a Fijian club going down 0-2 to Ba.


2010 O-LEAGUE - MATCH DAY 1

Full match reports:

Auckland City FC: 5 (Ivan VICELICH 18, Chad COOMBES 34, Daniel KOPRIVCIC 69, 79, 90+1)
AS Manu Ura: 0
Half-time: 2-0
Saturday 17 October 2009
Kiwitea Street
Auckland, New Zealand

Referee: Gerard PARSONS [AUS]
Assistant Referee 1: Mark RULE [NZL]
Assistant Referee 2: Glen LOCHRIE [NZL]
Fourth Official: Nick WALDRON [NZL]

Crowd: 875
 
Auckland City FC line-up: 1. Jacob SPOONLEY  [GK], 3. Ian HOGG, 5. Matt WILLIAMS, 6. Ki-Hyung LEE (17. Adam McGEORGE 74), 7. James PRITCHETT, 8. Chad COOMBES (22. Adam DICKINSON 72) 11. Daniel KOPRIVCIC, 13. Alex FENERIDIS, 15. Ivan VICELICH, 19. Keryn JORDAN (16. Jason HAYNE 62), 20. Greg UHLMANN
Substitutes not used: 4. Sam CAMPBELL, 9. Paul URLOVIC, 12. Paul GOTHARD  [GK], 21. Riki VAN STEEDEN
Coach: Paul POSA [NZL]

Yellow cards: Nil

Red cards: Nil

AS Manu Ura line-up: 16. Daniel TAPETA  [GK], 2. Henri TAPEA, 3. Rex FAURA, 5. Philippe MORETA, 7. Tetahio AURAA, 8. Vetea TEPA, 9. Jean-Francois KABEU, 10. Auguste WASHETINE, 12. Hiroana POROIEA, 20. Billy MATAITAI, 22. Fraddy TAUIHARA
Substitutes not used: 1. Jonathan TOROHIA  [GK], 14. Stephane TUAIRAU, 15. Henri CHANON, 19. Heitini TUPEA, 22. Fraddy TAUIHARA
Coach:  Patrick PITO [TAH]

Yellow cards: Rex FAURA 55, Philippe MORETA 79

Red cards: Vetea TEPA 74

Tafea FC: 3 (Silas NAMATAK 1, Robert TOM 34, Francois SAKAMA 45)
Hekari United FC: 3 (Kema JACK 40, 42, Benjamin MELA 50)
Half-time: 3-2
Saturday 17 October 2009
Municipal Stadium
Port Vila, Vanuatu

Referee: Jamie CROSS [NZL]
Assistant Referee 1: Michael JOSEPH [VAN]
Assistant Referee 2: Alick LUKUI [VAN]
Fourth Official: Robinson BANGA [VAN]

Crowd: 4,000+

Tafea FC line-up: 1. Alfred MALAS [GK], 4. Roger JOE, 5. Silas NAMATAK, 6. Fredy VAVA, 7. Moise POIDE (16. Alphonse QORIG 84), 9. Jean Nako NAPRAPOL, 11. Etienne MERMER (15. Jonah TURU 45), 13. Francois SAKAMA, 17. Geoffrey GETE, 18. Robert TOM, 19. Michell KALTAK (10. Richard IWAI 67)
Substitutes not used: 3. Jacques MAFIL NAWAN, 14. Asi DANIEL, 20. Len MERKA  [GK], 21. Francois TAKAU
Coach: Graham DEMAS [VAN]

Yellow cards: Silas NAMATAK 20

Red cards: Nil

Hekari United FC line-up: 20. Gure GABINA [GK], 2. Lorima DAU, 4. Cyril MUTA, 7. Benjamin MELA, 9. Tuimasi MANUCA, 12. David MUTA (10. Abraham ENOCH 63), 15. Charles PARANDA, 16. Pita BALEITOGA, 17. Kema JACK, 18. Eric KOMENG (8. Michael FOSTER 89), 19. Koriak UPAIGA (5. Brian TUHIANA 75)
Substitutes not used: 1. Godfrey BANIAU [GK], 13. Andrew LEPANI, 22. Amuna KAMBA, 24. Kluivert DAGI
Coach: Jerry ALLEN [SOL]

Yellow cards: Lorima DAU 13, Pita BALEITOGA 26, Cyril MUTA 87

Red cards: Nil

Marist FC: 1 (Abraham INIGA 82)
Lautoka: 3 (Kamal HASSAN 14, Samuela KAUTOGA 20, Nahuel ARRART 90+2)
Half-time: 2-0
Sunday 18 October 2009
Lawson Tama Stadium
Honiara, Solomon Islands

Referee: Chris KERR [NZL]
Assistant Referee 1: Matthew TARO [SOL]
Assistant Referee 2: Gerald OIAKA [SOL]
Fourth Official: John SAOHU [SOL]

Crowd: 16,000

Marist FC line-up: 20. Fred HALE  [GK] (1. Michael KOUMA  [GK] 46), 2. Chrisanto MISIGA, 3. Derol MELO, 5. David HOUPERE, 7. Joseph LANI, 9. Abraham INIGA, 10. Michael MISITANA (14. Tutizama TANITO 87), 11. Commins MENAPI, 12. Clifford HUTA, 15. Joe LUWI (6. Michael PATITI 73), 17. Gibson HOSEA
Substitutes not used: 4. Emmanuel POILA, 8. John WAYNE, 13. Lenson BISILI, 16. Martin RUHASIA
Coach: Patrick MINITI [SOL]

Yellow cards: Abraham INIGA 38, David HOUPERE 46, Joe LUWI 71, Derol MELO 90+1

Red cards: Nil

Lautoka line-up: 1. James CHRONOPOULIS [GK], 2. Samuela KAUTOGA, 3. Keni DOIDOI, 4. Samuela VULA, 6. Malakai WAQA (5. Semesa NAKOSIA 75), 8. Ilatia TUILAU, 9. Nahuel ARRART, 10. Kamal HASSAN, 15. Marika ROBANAKADAVU, 16. Jone VONO (14. Samuela DRUDRU 88), 17. Arvindra NAIDU (11. Sailesh SAMY, 69)
Substitutes not used: 13. Apisal SMITH
Coach: Imdad ALI [FIJ]

Yellow cards: Samuela VULA 47, Marika ROBANAKADAVU 51, Ilatia TUILAU 67

Red cards: Nil

In match number three of the 2010 O-League, Solomon Island club champions Marist FC host Fiji's Lautoka at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara. 

Lautoka are making their debut in the O-League while Marist's only other appearance in the competition was during the inaugural 2007 season.

oceaniafootball.com brings you the latest updates from the crucial Group B clash.

HALF TIME UPDATE:

Marist FC 0 Lautoka 2
Kamal Hassan and Samuela Kautoga put Lautoka ahead by two goals inside the first 20 minutes.

FULL TIME:

Marist FC 1 Lautoka 3
Abraham Iniga got Marist back in the game with a goal midway through the second half but Lautoka made it 3-1 in injury time with a strike from Nahuel Arrarte.

The newly-expanded 2010 O-League featuring the champion clubs of Fiji, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tahiti and Vanuatu is set to get underway this weekend.

Now in its fourth season, the O-League has grown from six to eight teams reflecting the rising popularity of the competition and enabling more OFC member associations to take part.

OFC President Reynald Temarii believes the expansion, which was approved by the OFC Executive Committee in June, will help to lift the overall standards in Oceania.

“Building a strong club competition is a crucial component in our region’s development and will only help to improve the standards of quality and technical skill both on and off the field,” said President Temarii.  

The 2010 O-League has been split into two groups of four teams and will follow a league system where each club plays one home and one away match against each of the other clubs in the same group. The highest ranked Group A side and the highest ranked Goup B side will then advance to a two-legged final stage to decide Oceania’s representative at the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2010.

In action for Group A this weekend will be defending champions Auckland City FC taking on Tahiti’s AS Manu Ura at Kiwitea Street in Auckland on Saturday. Meanwhile cross-town rivals Waitakere United, who won the O-League in 2007 and 2008, will have to wait until 24 October to get their 2010 campaign underway when they visit Noumea to play AS Magenta in the other Group A match.

In Group B, Hekari United FC (PNG) will play away against Tafea FC at Municipal Stadium in Port Vila on Saturday while Marist FC host Fiji club Lautoka at Honiara’s Lawson Tama Stadium the following day. 

General Secretary Tai Nicholas says the 2010 season is expected to be as intriguing as ever. 

“With a total of 26 matches culminating in a home-and-away final in April/May 2010, this season’s O-League promises to throw up many twists and turns.”

The OFC Club Championships started in 1999 and became known as the O-League in 2007 when the competition adopted a home-and-away format. Auckland City FC won the inaugural O-League and followed that up with victory last year over Solomon Island club Koloale FC in the final.

Auckland will represent Oceania at the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 in December alongside the five other continental club champions and hosts UAE.

To view a copy of the 2010 O-League Programme click here

Marist FC fans will be taking confidence from the return of one of the brightest stars, international striker Commins Menapi, when their team opens its 2010 O-League campaign against Fiji’s Lautoka this Sunday in Honiara.

Menapi has also returned to his former club after playing with New Zealand’s Waitakere United FC and, for a number of seasons, with Honiara champions Makuru Football Club.

He is arguably the Solomon Island’s most well known footballer and has gathered extensive experience for a number of clubs playing in New Zealand and Australia. Menapi has gained in excess of 30 caps for his country and will be invaluable role model to his younger teammates and his lethal striking ability will worry all opponents.

And Marist will come into this weekend’s match high on confidence after a morale boosting 4–0 win over Zome Mars FC, lead by Solomon Islands World Cup Beach Soccer star James Naka during their recent build up to this O-League Championship.

Earlier this week they completed a week long training camp at the NAC facilities in Tenaru. In what may be a good omen the same venue was used by the club when preparing for the finals of the Our Telekom National Club Championship which they then went on to win, beating  Koloale FC 1-0 in the final.

Menapi is accompanied by some other will known Oceania footballers in this Marist squad; midfielder Abraham Iniga, and central defender Jacob Pekau will wear blue and white this season after both switching allegiances from (Group B rivals) Papua New Guinea club Hekari.

Also featured in the 2010 O-League squad are some young players with exciting potential to add to an already potent Marist strike force.

Fleet footed forward Tutizama Tanito was revelation during Marist’s National Club Championship campaign.

Joe Luwi has already established his name in the O-League with KOSSA FC. He comes with a reputation for powerful shooting ability and a canny sense for attacking opportunities.

Experienced midfielder Abraham Iniga will wear the captain’s armband for Marist FC in this season’s O-League. Iniga was a key member of Marist’s acclaimed 2004/05 team which included stars like Jack Samani and Jerry Allen.

Solomon Island futsal sensation Elliot Ragomo, 19, has been awarded top goal scorer at the 2009 Al-Fateh Confederations Cup – a tournament featuring some of the best futsal players in the world.

Staged in Libya from 6-12 October, the competition featured the champion teams of each confederation barring UEFA after Spain withdrew at late notice.

Ragomo finished with six goals to claim the golden boot award despite the Solomon Island Kurukuru finishing last behind Iran, Uruguay, Libya and Guatemala.

The skillful striker has been an inspirational captain of the youthful national side, leading the Kurukuru to their second successive victory at the OFC Futsal Championship in July 2009.

He has won many accolades including most recently the Young Solomon Islander of the Year award in August.

Ragomo was the first ever Solomon Islander to play futsal as a professional when he played for Playas De Castellyon in the Nacinal Futsal Liga in Spain in 2007. He graduated from the Playas De Castellyon juvenile development squad in 2006 to make his name in their senior squad.

As national captain he led the Kurukuru in 2008 as they became the first Solomon Islands team to appear at a FIFA Futsal World Cup.

Domestically, Ragomo plays for the Brissolona Futsal Club and with Central Titans in the Honiara Beach Soccer League.

AL-FATEH CONFEDERATIONS CUP

Honours

Best Player 
Vahid Shamsaei (Iran)

Best Goalkeeper
Mohammed Al-Sharif (Libya)

Top Goal Scorer
Elliot Ragomo (Solomon Islands)

Fair Play Team
Libya

Matches

Standings

The Solomon Islands national futsal team have gone down 0-6 against Asian powerhouse Iran in their final match at the Alfateh Intercontinental Futsal Championship in Libya.

With strong counter-attacking play, the Iranians caught the young Kurukuru off-guard on several occasions and were lethal with their set plays.

The Solomon Islands were in control during the opening exchanges and went close through Micah Lea’alafa whose shot went just wide.

But inside five minutes Iran were 1-0 up after a well taken set play. They followed that up with a second strike in the 8th minute, again from a dead ball situation, to double the lead.

The Kurukuru regrouped and started making advances but struggled to find a way through the Iranian defensive blockade.

With a goalkeeper in top form, Iran thwarted any shots that did make it through, and grabbed two more goals at the other end to take a 4-0 lead into the break.

Solomon Islands fought strongly in the second period using pace and skill to good effect and had the Iranians back peddling for extended periods. But Iran scored two more goals in quick succession to put the game out of reach.

The result was well deserved for the Asian champions who showed their class and strong strategic play. Nevertheless, the young Kurukuru side took heart from solid performances throughout the tournament where they had drawn huge support from an admiring crowd.

Story courtesy of SIFF Media

The Solomon Islands men’s Futsal team have secured their first point at the Alfateh Confederations Cup in Libya on Friday, drawing with Guatemala 6-6.

The result is the Kurukuru’s best at a major international tournament and will help to erase the pain of their agonising 5-6 opening game loss to the Cup hosts Libya.

The Solomon Islanders leapt out to a 2-0 lead which Guatemala were able to cancel out with two strikes of their own to draw level at halfime.

Guatemala continued their form revival by going ahead early in the second half, but this sparked the Kurukuru to lift their play again, establishing an imposing 6-3 lead.

But Guatemala also proved they weren’t prepared to surrender and began to utilize their goal keeper as a fifth attacker and the tactic paid off as they scored three straight goals. The final equalizing Guatemalan goal came with just 1:24 left on the clock.

Solomon Islands captain Elliot Ragomo scored four goals for his team and could have had more had he been able to capitalize on three 10 metre penalty opportunities.

Story courtesy of SIFF Media