NUKU' ALOFA - TONGAN international goalkeeper, Mele Likiliki of Fasi mo e Afi, is a nominee for the Oceania Football Confederation's Women's Player of the Year 2008 Award.

She is among 15 top women football players from Oceania who have been short-listed for the OFC's top award to be announced in April.

Mele (25) is the first Tongan woman to be nominated for the award.

The OFC, in a Media release, stated Mele was chosen for her charisma, brave style and no nonsense approach, which were vital attributes contributing to Tonga's Silver Medal win during the 2007 South Pacific Games in Samoa.

The nominations were spread across 18 months to make up for long periods in the competition calendar where there was no international women's football activity.

Mele, who has been playing the sport since the age of 17, said today she was very happy to be nominated for the top award - a great recognition of her skills and talent.

Mele aims to continue her career in the sport and represent Tonga in future international tournaments.

The other 14 nominees who have been short-listed are from Fiji, American Samoa, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, Tahiti and New Zealand.

For the Men's Player of the Year Award, there are ten nominees from players who are predominantly playing in Asia and Europe.

The winner will determined by a jury consisting of members of the OFC Executive Committee, member association's presidents, general secretaries, national team coaches and technical directors of all OFC members associations.

The General Secretary of the Oceania Football Federation, Tai Nicholas, said that nominees will be judged based on their performances from mid-July 2007 to the last day of 2008.

"I am delighted there is a women's category, particularly after the quality of football witnessed at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup hosted by New Zealand," she said.

Story and photograph courtesy www.matangitonga.to

Action image by Vanessa Smith 2007

AUCKLAND - The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) wishes to advise the global football family that the general secretariat will shut for the holiday season on Monday 22 December 2008 - Monday 5 January 2009.

OFC wishes everyone around the world a happy and peaceful holiday season and a safe and prosperous 2009.

AUCKLAND - Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), Auckland Regional Council (ARC), Sky Television New Zealand (Prime Television), Fiji TV and Sky Pacific and all "Beautiful Game" associated partners are pleased to announce the live broadcast details of Oceania All Stars vs. LA Galaxy.

Thirteen broadcasters from around the region will take live coverage of this groundbreaking event from Mount Smart Stadium, Penrose, Auckland, as a squad of players from around Oceania plus invited guest players from Australia and Netherlands take on the stars from Major League Soccer (MLS) to help raise funds for Kids Can, John Walker Field of Dreams and promote OFC Football for Life.

OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas said the match would create television and football history around the Oceania region.

"The fact we have thirteen of our regional broadcasters taking this match live is historic in itself. The Karembeu Jubilee match in Noumea was distributed delayed.

We at OFC are delighted to bring our regions footballers together like this, but even happier the people in the countries will be able to see them alongside the LA Galaxy, Christian Karembeu, Mark Bosnich and Edgar Davids.," Nicholas said.

The broadcast will reach a potential audience of just over 6 million people.

OFC Media and Communications Officer Gordon Glen Watson said New Caledonia had the option of taking a tape of the match delayed.

"At this stage the technology to bring the match live to New Caledonia is not in place. However, Fiji TV and RFO are in dialogue about solving this problem as a result of this event - that is a strong indication of the power and attraction of football in our region," Watson said.

Live internet audio broadcast of this match is available at www.radiosport.co.nz

For full listings in your country or territory please consult local listings.

MATCH DETAILS

Saturday 6 December 2008

"The Beautiful Game"

Oceania All Stars vs. LA Galaxy

Mount Smart Stadium

Penrose

Auckland

Kick-Off: 19h35 (New Zealand Time)

Oceania All Stars coach Jim Selby at yesterday's press conference

BROADCASTERS TAKING THE LIVE FEED

American Samoa - Pacific Channel Samoa

American Samoa - Pacific Island Cable

Cook Islands - Cook Islands Television

Kiribati - Television Kiribati Ltd

New Zealand - Prime Television/Sky Television

Niue - Broadcasting Corporation of Niue

Papua New Guinea - EMTV (Media New Guinea Limited)

Solomon Islands - One News Ltd/Solomon Telekom Co. Ltd

Tonga - Tonga  Broadcasting Commission

Tonga - TONFON Entertainment Ltd

Vanuatu - Vanuatu Broadcasting & TV Corp

Samoa - Samoa Broadcasting Corporation

AUCKLAND - The FIFA Futuro III Referee Instructors course began yesterday in Auckland with 21 participants from eight OFC Member Associations (MA’s) in attendance.

The aim of the course that runs from November 27 – December 3, is to provide instructors with the necessary tools and training to enable them to impart similar courses to referees/assistant referees at local level under the auspices of their national association.

The course was run by FIFA Instructors Massimo Raveino (TAH), Neil Poloso (SOL) and Shamsul Maidin from Singapore.

It was the first FIFA Futuro course organised in Oceania where an instructor came from outside of the confederation, and Maidin’s experience of four FIFA Futuro Courses in the Asian Football Confederation was a welcome addition to the group.

Participants from New Zealand, Cook Islands, Tonga, Fiji, American Samoa, New Caledonia, Tahiti and Papua New Guinea took part in the course which was split into technical classroom style technical courses in the morning and practical field based sessions in the afternoon.

Raveino said that the vision for the course was to change the mindset of participants.

“Today our vision regarding referee development in the MA’s is to change the refereeing philosophy, and to change the mindset in the islands,” he said.

“FIFA want results in OFC over the next four years and we need to provide them.

The criteria for selecting referee instructors are numerous and varied.

“The first criteria for involvement is that they must have the ability to work in the MA to teach, instruct organize, coach, monitor and assess,” Raveino said.

“Second they must agree to a targets contract and a moral contract which means they must want to assist the MA and work with the co-operation of the referee development officer in the national associations.

Raveino said the success of this week will be based on how the courses get run in the member associations.

“During this week the participants will organise the technical and practical sessions because they are not here to learn how to instruct, teach and coach, they are here to improve their abilities and that is a key difference. We told the MA’s we need instructors, we don’t need referee’s coming here to learn to be instructors.”

During the course the participants will be taught the FIFA Philosophy regarding the laws of the game, uniformity in understanding how to improve performances of the match officials, methodology, how to organise a course and the management of the calendar program.

Raveino said the instructors have to be flexible because situations in some of the member associations are likely to be unique.

“We have to be flexible and adapt to each situation. For example if you are in American Samoa, it will not be the same as if you are in PNG. In PNG you have no laptop or projector and so the only material at your disposal may be the blackboard and they need to be able to adapt to this change.”

Raveino said it is important to change the mindset in Oceania, and said there would be no one coming over for a holiday.

“We don’t want travellers on our course, or people not here for the right reasons. The lesson that we have learned from the islands is that some participants want to come to Auckland to find their families and visit the city. It is time to change.

“In Fiji in 2004 we ran a course and had 38 candidates. Today we only have 12 instructors who continue to work in their MA. So we don’t want to find this situation again.”

“Next year we will travel to each MA to organize the course with the referee instructors and also to follow up with these candidates.”

Photos: Shane Wenzlick

FIFA Instructor Shamsul Maiden from Singapore

FIFA Instructor Massimo Raveino gives a techincal lecture

Pics above: FIFA Futuro III course participants take in the techincal sessions

Many women footballers across Oceania dream to see the game develop, and the region compete strongly on the world stage.

The desire to achieve this goal was the common theme among the delegates and course participants at the FIFA/OFC Coaching Course for Women’s Football in New Zealand, that opened today at the Millennium Institute on Auckland’s North Shore - just days out from kick-off of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008.

The ten day course has drawn thirty participants from ten of the eleven OFC member associations and representatives of New Zealand Football (NZF) and its member federations.

NZF President Frank Van Hattum, NZF CEO Michael Glading, Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) General Secretary Tai Nicholas, along with FIFA’s Juerg Nepfer, Michelle Cox and Mayrilian Cruz Blanco called on course participants to embrace the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 as a prime opportunity to promote women’s football not only in New Zealand, but the Oceania region.

“It is the vision of the FIFA President Joesph S. Blatter to develop women’s football. He initiated the women’s World Cups. In 1991 it was difficult to find 12 teams of the same level. Now, in 2008, we have four competitions – U-17, U-20, Olympic and FIFA Women’s World Cup. There are 30 million registered women players in the football family.
It is now the responsibility of the member associations to develop the game further,” Nepfer said.

Nepfer added that the broad aim of the course was to leave behind a legacy for women’s football.

“FIFA has invested finance and human resource to develop and promote the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and we count on the support of those present to share their experience and knowledge with those not privileged to be on this course,” Nepfer said.

The course differs from most technically-based curriculums with a broad approach taken with the practical coach education aspect combined with broader learning aims including promotion of the game, match analyses, knowledge transfer, network development and exchange of experiences.

NZF President Frank Van Hattum delivered an address that was both encouraging and supportive.

“World Cups create lifelong friendships and memories for everyone who participates in them. Age group World Cups are all about learning, analysing and improving. I am certain this course will help improve knowledge and experience in a unique live learning environment crucial to the development of the women’s game,” Van Hattum said.

 

OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas addresses course participants at the Millenium Institute on Auckland's North Shore

OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas highlighted the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and the Coaching Course as arguably the greatest opportunity handed to women’s football ever held in the Oceania region.

“The FIFA President has said many times that the future of football is feminine and when you we host a major FIFA tournament in our region we can see he is right.

The numbers of women playing football in our region has increased dramatically in recent times with countries such as Papua New Guinea and Tonga making big strides.

The hard work of NZF, FIFA, Michelle Cox and Carolina Morace during the Ambassador tour will go a long way to ensure a legacy is left after this event finishes. We have every reason to be optimistic,” Nicholas said.

Michelle Cox said it was apparent during the Ambassador tour that coaching was one area in New Zealand where women’s football had to pick-up. Cox said the courses would help show coaches that understanding broader aspects off the pitch such as marketing had a direct impact on their job.

“Promoting the game off the pitch can have a major impact on your job as a coach and it is important during this course that we impart this idea to participants,” Cox said.

“Top coaches are aware of all areas of the game and this course will raise participants’ awareness and build their capacity outside their traditional area of expertise on the pitch,” Cox said.

OFC Technical Director Jim Selby said one pleasing aspect was the diverse personalities of the FIFA Instructor team.

“This is a special group of FIFA Instructors from different parts of the world where the game is being developed and I am sure they will relate to the coaches and make them feel comfortable in a course that has holistic aims outside of a technical environment.”

FIFA Ambassador Carolina Morace was joined by FIFA Instructors Anne Noe, Monika Staab, Betty Wong and Vanessa Martinez Lagunas. The course runs from 26 October to 5 November when the group stage of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 will conclude.

FIFA Instructors share a smile at the opening of the FIFA/OFC Coaching Course for Women's Football in New Zealand

At its meeting in Zurich on 23and 24 October, the FIFA Executive Committee primarily discussed finances, competitions, the international match calendar, social responsibility and political and legal matters.

On the subject of finances, a detailed analysis of the potential impact of the ongoing international financial crisis was presented, first to the Finance Committee and then to the Executive Committee. According to this analysis, FIFA has not suffered any losses, and is well equipped to weather the current crisis thanks to a number of factors, including: the diversification of its financial assets; low exposure to currency fluctuations; the fact that 95 per cent of the 2007-2010 income budget is under contract; good cost management; and the diversity of its portfolio of commercial and TV partners. The figures will, as usual, appear in the financial report at the end of the current financial year.

As was the case for previous FIFA World Cups™ since 1998, the Executive Committee approved the Finance Committee's recommendation that FIFA take out an insurance policy to provide cover of USD 650 million in the event of the postponement and/or relocation of the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups. This policy will only provide cover against terrorisms, natural disasters, epidemics, war, accidents or turmoil.

With regard to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the Executive Committee decided that, in order to protect the welfare of the players, they should play their last club matches on 16 May 2010 at the latest. A mandatory rest period will be in place from 17 to 23 May 2010. The final of the UEFA Champions League - scheduled to be played on 22 May 2010 - will be the only exception to this rule. A similar approach was adopted prior to the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

The FIFA Executive Committee also discussed the possibility of announcing the host countries for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups simultaneously. The proposal was accepted in principle, but a final decision on this matter will not be taken until the Executive Committee's next meeting in Tokyo, on 19 and 20 December 2008.

The Executive Committee also received a report from the Players' Status Committee on an issue FIFA considers fundamental: the protection of minors and training clubs. A series of measures, which you can view by clicking on the links to the right, is being considered in order to provide young players with greater protection and to monitor the application of FIFA regulations. In particular, steps to control youth academies were approved.

The Executive Committee once again expressed its support for the 6+5 proposal approved by the FIFA Congress in Sydney.

The Executive Committee stressed the importance of social responsibility for FIFA, which through the Football for Hope programme develops humanitarian projects all over the world. For further information, see the Football For Hope link on the right.

With regard to member associations, the Executive Committee decided to suspend the Samoa Football Soccer Federation, as the problems within the federation persist despite the establishment of a normalisation committee. The Executive Committee also renewed the suspension of the Kuwait Football Association (KFA) because the elections that were due to be held before mid-October have not yet taken place. The KFA is therefore suspended until further notice.

A report on the situation in a number of other member associations, including Indonesia, St Kitts and Nevis, Peru and Spain, was also presented. FIFA will suspend the Peruvian football association if government interference does not stop by 21 November.

An application for affiliation from the Kosovo football association was deemed not to comply with art. 10 of the FIFA Statutes, which stipulates that only "an independent state recognised by the international community" may be admitted. In accordance with the Statutes, Kosovo cannot play any friendly matches.

The committee took note of progress in the discussions on the possible affiliation of the Turkish-Cypriot Football Association (CTFA) to the Cyprus Football Association (CFA).

Other matters:

- FIFA U-17 World Cup 2009: the government of Nigeria has informed FIFA that it is no longer in a position to provide its support for the organisation of the tournament. FIFA is looking into the situation.
- 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa: as part of efforts to promote the competition on every continent, a global Fan Fest project is under way. 16 cities have been chosen for the project.
- 2009 international match calendar - the following dates have been added to the 2009 international match calendar:

AFC (Asian Football Confederation): 17 June 2009
CAF (Confederation of African Football): 20-21 June 2009

In addition, owing to the participation of these teams in the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009, the following amendments have been approved:
- for the USA, the period from 3 to 6/7 June has been reserved to replace 6 and 10 June
- for Egypt, the date 4/5 July has been reserved to replace 20/21 June.

The next meeting of the Executive Committee will take place in Tokyo on 19 and 20 December.

SUVA - Sky Pacific in association with the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) will air the Christian Karembeu Jubilee Match in a delayed broadcast tonight on the following platforms. The Karembeu match has screened on RFO New Caledonia and footage has been made available to Sky Television New Zealand.

SKY PACIFIC – CH10 / Super Channel

Friday 6th June         11.00pm FJT     1st Run

Saturday 7th June       5.00am FJT      2nd Run

Saturday 7th June       12.00pm FJT     3rd Run

Territory	Broadcasters
American Samoa	Pacific Channel Samoa
American Samoa	Pacific Island Cable
Cook Islands	Cook Islands Television Limited
Niue	Broadcasting Corporation Niue
Papua New Guinea	Media New Guinea Limited
Samoa	Samoa Broadcasting Corporation Limited
Samoa	Apia Broadcasting Limited
Solomon Islands	Solomon Telekom Company Limited
Tonga	Tonga Broadcasting Commission Limited
Tonga	Tonfon Entertainment

OFC Head of Women’s Football Connie Selby has been on a mission.

Over the past three weeks she has been deployed by OFC and FIFA in Papua New Guinea and Tonga with the aim of promoting Women’s Football and developing an understanding of how the game works among the coaches in the local areas.

Selby ran a FIFA/OFC MA Women’s Coaching course in Port Moresby from March 3-8, followed by a junior course in Vava’u on March 11-12 and is currently running a regional course in Tonga from March 17-22.

Selby has been impressed with the development of coaches and willing participants since her last visit to PNG late last year.

“A lot of motivated females that are interested are now getting more involved in working with the junior girls and are helping develop the standard throughout PNG. It’s encouraging to see more coaches become members of the women’s standing committee but it still needs to be driven from somewhere.”

Selby said there were a lot of obstacles that Women’s coaches in PNG had to overcome but was happy with the professional approach taken by the women.

“A lot of our course participants find it difficult to attain access to adequate facilities, find it difficult to play 90 minute games for girls, and often struggle just getting hold of equipment because these countries don’t have enough resources to carry on from where we leave off.”

“But because our course was really well organised and the participants were there on time it ran smoothly and was very professional.”

Selby said there was an excellent response from course participants, who wanted the course to continue for another two weeks.

“They just wanted as much information as they could get, anything on Football, they were all really smart and enthusiastic.”

One of those who wanted more was Spencer Manhi a former PNG international who now plays for Hekari United in the NSL.

Manhi paid for his own airfare from Kokopo to attend the course which he saw as an opportunity not to be missed.

“I train kids where I’m from, and saw this as a great opportunity to learn more about coaching. I like to help get kids together and identify talent and then develop them.

“From the course I learnt how to deal with kids and how to develop them into better players, how to prepare quality training sessions and it gave me a better understanding of the game from a coaches point of view.

“We need more interested people who are keen on developing players to attend course like this so we can be more competitive in OFC and abroad.”

Manhi took a representative side to the OFC U’12 festival of football tournament in Papua New Guinea in April last year and described it as the greatest experience of his coaching career and something that he will always remember.

Selby said that there is not enough television coverage of football on TV in Papua New Guinea but noted that the recent live broadcast from EMTV of the OFC Women’s Olympic Qualifying match between New Zealand and Papua New Guinea was a huge step forward toward promoting women’s football in PNG.

“One of the best things about the course in Port Moresby was that Dame Carol Kidu (the first female cabinet minister in PNG) presented all the course participants with certificates and shared some of her experiences with them which was a special moment for everyone involved. She is a huge supporter of Women’s football.”

 

The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ preliminary competition has also catapulted a number of Oceanian teams up the table with Fiji (119th, up 51), the Solomon Islands (121st, up 40), New Caledonia (124th, up 44), Vanuatu (133rd, up 34) and Samoa (147th, up 44) all claiming more than 100 points and jumping more than 30 places.

New Zealand (156th, down 7), who are yet to start their World Cup qualifying campaign, have therefore lost their lead in Oceania, at least for the time being.

RANKING

119       FIJI

121       SOLOMON ISLANDS

124       NEW CALEDONIA

133       VANUATU

147       SAMOA

156       NEW ZEALAND

161       TAHITI

167       TONGA

182       PAPUA NEW GUINEA

199       COOK ISLANDS

200       AMERICAN SAMOA

 

 

 

Papua New Guinea had to battle hard to claim the South Pacific Games women's football gold medal after coming back from 1-0 down to win 3-1 in extra time after a nail-biting finale. Penateti Feke had earlier given Tonga a 1-0 lead after just 21 minutes sprinting clear of the Papua New Guinea defence and slotting a great finish past a bewildered and exposed Linda Bunanga.

Papua New Guinea were stunned but soon burst into action creating a raft of chances that had Tonga's defence working overtime to hold onto their precious lead. In Tonga's previous seven internationals they had only conceded one goal - an own goal against Papua New Guinea in Lae at the OFC/FIFA Women's World Cup qualifiers - and this match had all the hallmarks of another tight game.

However, Tonga's fantastic defensive record finally fell when Daisy Winas pierced Mele Likiliki's goal on 69 minutes to bring the crowd to its feet. Tonga laboured to stay in the match; if their defensive record has been miserly, their inability to score goals has been equally economical having only scored a total of five goals in eight matches.

The impression was, after Papua New Guinea's equaliser, that Tonga's best chance of winning the final was to hang on for penalties. Any foray into Papua New Guinea's half of the pitch was usually crafted out of a desperate long ball forward into the path of Feke but with Francis Moiyap instructing his team to drop off deeper, Feke's opportunities to get in behind the back four became fewer and fewer.

When Papua New Guinea's Helen Baki got her marching orders for a second bookable offence, Tonga were seemingly afforded a slight advantage but they were never able to come to terms with their numerical advantage losing an opportunity to turn the pressure up on a Papua New Guinea team throwing everything forward in attack.

The game was up when Ara Midi scored Papua New Guinea's second goal in 108 minutes after Tonga's legs and minds began to weary and the nippy playmaker rifled home a powerful shot that left Likiliki with no chance. Tonga's brave resistance was coming to a close and this was confirmed when Lydia Banabas - Papua New Guinea's star player at these Games - added a wonderful third following a defensive error after 119 minutes.

The final whistle signalled scenes of triumph for Papua New Guinea and their team whilst Tonga's gallant heroes lay spent on the pitch heartbroken yet proud of a tournament in which they accounted for Fiji, host nation Samoa, and an impressive New Caledonia. But the hour belonged to Papua New Guinea who underlined their credentials as OFC's "second power" behind New Zealand. Papua New Guinea will face New Zealand in a two-match play-off with the winner qualifying for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

 

LIVE UPDATES:

3' - the rain from during the day has cleared, allowing this match to be a little more free-flowing

4' - both teams have had a fair share of the action so far

5' - there is a stoppage in play to attend to Cathy Agunam, who has injured her knee

9' - Likiliki is in the action early, calming matters for her team on their big occasion

11' - Tonga force a corner on the counter attack through Penateti Feke, but Papua New Guinea clear well

16' - Julie Alau has a sight on goal for Papua New Guinea, but Sala Veamatahau covers well to force a throw

21' - GOAL!

#12. Penateti FEKE finds space down the left, to run through on goal unchallenged, slide her finish into the far corner and put Tonga ahead

24' - Kathrina Salaiau hits a low bending free kick into Likiliki's arms diving forward, but the ball is loosed from her grasp by Margaret Aka, only for the Tongan defence to clear the loose ball

30' - Likiliki is out well again to collect another Salaiau free kick

34' - a bouncing ball meanders into the Tongan area, which Likiliki does well to hold under physical pressure from Agunam

35' - Tracey Kig has a free kick headed for the top left, only for Likiliki to get the slightest of touches for the ball to ricochet wide off the corner

37' - Likiliki claims a high ball spectacularly above her head, this time under pressure from Aka

39' - Papua New Guinea are on the break through Aka, but the Tongan defence tracks well to get numbers behind the ball 

44' - Kig is down injured on half way, and leaves the field for treatment

-- 1 minute added time --

 

HALF TIME: PNG 0 TON 1 

 

46' - Francis Moiyap rings the changes, with #12. Lydia BANABAS coming on for #6. Cathy AGUNAM, and #16. Ara MIDI replacing #14. Tracey KIG

47' - Deslyn Siniu is down on half way, and leaves the field for treatment

48' - Veamatahau slides well to clear up a loose ball at the back for Tonga, but Ara Midi shoots first time from a loose touch for Likiliki to save well moving forwards

51' - Winas picks Midi out well in the penalty box, but she fails her footing and loses the opportunity

54' - Tonga counter attack from a Papua New Guinea corner, for Lanta to intelligently beign down Manu

54' - #15. Miriam LANTA picks up a yellow card for her troubles

56' - Papua New Guinea start to shoot from distance, looking for an equaliser

59' - #4. Helen BAKI receives a yellow card for bringing down Feke on the break 

63' - #8. Margaret AKA makes way for #2. Samantha PENINSA

64' - Tonga bring on #15. Salote LAUTAHA for #8. Neomai TUPOU

65' - Manu and Salaiau confront each other on half way, but finish with an embrace and requiring no further action from the referee 

67' - Maumea Mafi courageously blocks Banabas, when she looked certain to level matters

69' - GOAL!

Tonga concede their first goal in over 8 hours of football when #11. Daisy WINAS cuts inside, sets, and slams a low, hard finish inside the near post

73' - #4. Helen BAKI receives her second yellow card for bringing Feke down a second time

73' - RED CARD!

#4. Helen BAKI is sent of with her second yellow card, leaving Papua New Guinea to finish the match with ten players

76' - Winas is in the clear again, but this time Likiliki saves and holds

80' - Midi has space to turn and shoot, but her effort cannons in to the side netting

83' - Kulia Filo is hurt, and requires attention causing a brief stoppage in play and allowing Papua New Guinea a valuable rest

87' - Atelaite Manu is down injured, and leaves the field of play for treatment

-- 3 minutes added time -- 

90'+2 - Likiliki somehow saves from Winas, but mishandles and a goalmouth scramble results in a corner

90'+4 - #18. Maumea MAFI leaves the field on a stretcher, to be replaced by #6. Olive MATEIALONA

 

EXTRA TIME: PNG 1 TON 1  

 

91' - Siniu lets rip from 30 yards with her left foot, but shoots wide

92' - Filo covers Winas well to force a corner 

94' - Banabas wears one from an agricultural Pesalini Lave challenge on the edge of the box, but a foul is not given

94' - plays stops momentarily for Banabas to leave the field and compose herself

94' - Tonga's #7. Salome Vaenuku is the latest to be booked

96' - Salaiau has a go from a free kick at 35 yards, but hits directly into Likiliki's hands

98' - Tonga replace #11. Matelita MISINALE with #2. Mele NIUKAPU

100' - #9. Deslyn SINIU is booked for simulation under a Veamatahau challenge

101' - Salaiau has a go from a free kick at the top left corner of the box, missing narrowly over the top rigth corner of the goal

105' - Banabas has space in the box to shoot, but Likiliki is well positioned again 

-- 1 minute added time -- 

 

HALF TIME of EXTRA TIME: PNG 1 TON 1

 

108' - GOAL!

#16. Ara MIDI breaks through and thumps home what should be the winner from a tight angle, leaving Likiliki motionless

115' - Tonga look to have run out of steam, with Papua New Guinea galvanising to keep their Olympic dream alive

118' - Carloline Moeder has a shot from 40 yards, with Banabas following in to capture the rebound from Likiliki but missing narrowly to the left

119' - GOAL! 

#12. Lydia BANABAS capitalises on a defensive error to secure the win, the gold, and the Olympic Qualifying date with New Zealand

 

FULL TIME: PNG 3 TON 1 

 

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Women’s Final

Match Day 7 – 2030 – 7 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa   

PAPUA NEW GUINEA: 3. Kathrina SALAIAU; 4. Helen BAKI; 6. Cathy AGUNAM; 7. Julie ALAU; 8. Margaret AKA; 9. Deslyn SINIU; 10. Caroline MOEDER; 11. Daisy WINAS; 14. Tracey KIG; 15. Miriam LANTA; 20. Linda BUNAGA [gk].

Coach: Francis MOIYAP

Substitutes not used: 1. Roxanne KOMENG [gk]; 2. Samantha PENINSA; 5. Priscilla KONALALAI; 12. Lydia BANABAS; 13. Judith MICHAEL; 16. Ara MIDI.

Injured:

Suspended:

Not available: 

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers:    

TONGA: 1. Mele LIKILIKI [gk][c]; 3. Kulia FILO; 4. Pesalini LAVE; 5. Sala VEAMATAHAU; 7. Salome VAENUKU; 8. Neomai TUPOU; 9. Atelaite MANU; 10. Helen LOTOANIU; 11. Matelita MISINALE; 12. Penateti FEKE; 18. Maumea MAFI.

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 2. Mele NIKAPAU; 6. Olive MATEIALONA; 13. Makaleta FOLAUMOETAO; 15. Salote LAUTAHA; 16. Karen UTAATU; 17. Lose PELE; 19. Uluaki KAUFUSI; 20. Elenoa LAUHINGOA [gk].

Injured:  

Suspended:

Not available: 14. Unise HAFOKA. 

 

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers:     

Referee: Neil FOX (NZL)

Assistant Referee: Alison FLYNN (AUS)

Assistant Referee: Rohitesh DAYAL (FIJ)

Fourth Official: Finau VULIVULI (FIJ)

Fifth Official: Mahit CHILIA (VAN)

 

Tonga women's team have turned the XIII South Pacific Games on its head after an upset 1-0 win over Fiji in the semi-final of the women's football tournament at Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field in Apia, Samoa this afternoon.

Going into the match, and for the majority of the first half everything seemed to be going to script as Fiji dominated the game through the special talents of Asena Reba Ratu and her partner in crime, Adiela Kurikaba. What the Fijian did not count on however, was that the miserly Tongan defence has not conceded a goal in almost 8 hours of football ath these South Pacific Games – thanks largely to the exploits of recently crowned captain and inspirational goalkeeper Mele Likiliki.

Ironically, Likiliki looked to have blown Tonga’s chances midway through the first half when a push on Heilala Lotoaniu as she was bearing down on Fijian defender turned goalkeeper Mereoni Yabakidrau resulted in a penalty to Tonga.

After some delay to tend to the shaken Lotoaniu, it was Likiliki – not dominant forward Penateti Feke – who stepped up to the mark. Likiliki seemed to let the occasion get to her, dragging her low strike well left of the goal.

“I was very, very unhappy after the miss” said Likiliki. “From then on I felt like I owed it to my team to be sure that Fiji did not score”. It was a commitment she came good on, which led to Tonga’s second penalty – again for a foul on Lotoaniu – being coolly slotted by Feke, and the final minutes of the match dedicated to Tonga withstanding everything Fiji had left.

Fiji’s plight was not helped when Ratu was sensationally withdrawn from the game with half an hour to play, and the scores still locked at zero a piece. The final minutes saw a barrage of yellow cards to Fiji, and Tonga using the stoppages to set themselves in defence and clear the ball as far away as possible.

Tongan coach Kilifi Uele was “proud of his team to come through such a tough game, and look forward to focusing on the final”. The final shapes to be an electric encounter, with the skills and pace of Papua New Guinea pitted against the strength and solidity of Tonga in a clash that will determine who wins the honour of competing against New Zealand for a spot at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Fiji on the other hand now only have pride – and the bronze medal – to play for  against Tahiti – who were well beaten by Papua New Guinea under lights but will look forward to welcoming their suspended star defender Patricia Yakeula back from suspension for the match on Friday.

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Match Day 7

Women’s Final

2030hrs (GMT-13)       Papua New Guinea v Tonga

Bronze Medal Match

1230hrs (GMT-13)       Tahiti v Fiji  

 

*OFC Media would like to apologise for the loss of 'live update' footage for this match - we regret any inconvenience this may have caused

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Women’s Semi-Final

Match Day 6 – 1230 – 5 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa   

FIJI: 2. Mereoni YABAKIDRAU [gk]; 4. Alisi MEREDANI; 6. Adiela KURIKABA; 7. Vulolo Anaisi TORA; 10. Asena Reba RATU [c] (5. Sera TALANAVULA 66’); 11. Kinisimere VANUA; 12. Lynnette PEARCE; 13. Unaisi VATULILI; 15. Jijilia DUGUCANAVANUA; 17. Unaisi MOCE; 19. Kinisimere RAVAI.

Coach: Farouk JANEMAN

Substitutes not used: 1. Lice WAQAILITI [gk]; 3. Vika SADRAU; 8. Radilaite MARAMA; 9. Laisana MATAELE; 14. Mereani GALO; 16. Margaret MORRIS; 18. Naomi REGU; 20. Ana Maria KARIKARI [gk].

Injured:  

Suspended:

Not available:  

 

Cautions: 19. Kinisimere RAVAI (82’); 13. Unaisi VATULILI (90’+1); 6. Adiela KURIKABA (90’+3).

Red cards:

Goal scorers:  

TONGA: 1. Mele LIKILIKI [gk][c]; 3. Kulia FILO; 4. Pesalini LAVE; 5. Sala VEAMATAHAU; 6. Olive MATEIALONA (16. Karen UTAATU 65’); 7. Salome VAENUKU; 9. Atelaite MANU; 10. Heilala LOTOANIU (13. Makaleta FOLAUMOETAO 83’); 11. Matelita MISINALE; 12. Penateti FEKE; 15. Salote LAUTAHA (8. Neomai TUPOU 46’).

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 2. Mele NIUKAPU; 17. Lose PELE; 19. Uluaki KAUFUSI; 20. Elenoa LAUHINGOA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended: 18. Maumea MAFI.

Not available: 

Cautions: 4. Pesalini LAVE (27’).

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 12. Penateti FEKE (pen. 27’).   

Referee: Fiti AIMAASU (SAM)

Assistant Referee: Alison FLYNN (AUS)

Assistant Referee: Mahit CHILIA (VAN)

Fourth Official: Nelson SOGO (SOL)

Fifth Official: Jackson NAMO (SOL)

 

The tournament is down to the business end come Wednesday, with the big names needing to stand up and be counted if their country is to progress any further.

Victory in the women's tournament means a coveted shot at New Zealand for the right to represent Oceania at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

OFC Media is excited to provide our picks of the tournament so far, from those who remain -

FIJI

 Asena Reba RATU:

The experienced midfielder is the heart and soul of the Fijian team, using her infectious enthusiasm, energy, and exceptionally high work rate to spur her comrades along. Ratu has been the driving force behind Fiji's comprehensive results thus far, and will again look to run herself into the ground against Tonga.

 

Adiela KURIKABA:

Single-handedly put paid to the Solomon Islands' semi-final hopes with a dominant hat-trick in a fixture that could have easily caught Fiji out. Has a distinct, direct style of play - backing herself to beat a defender one on one, and always keen to have a shot on goal.

 

Unaisi MOCE:

A valuable and rare naturally left-sided player who truly covers box-to-box. A potent threat in joining attacks created by Ratu, and supplying the eager Kurikaba.

 

 

TONGA

Penateti FEKE:

The inspirational Feke was perhaps the sole point of concern that kept Samoa from pouring everything forward in their 'winner-progresses' Group B fixture on Monday night. Feke is blindingly fast, has the strength to repel any defender at will, and the skills that can set any fixture alight.

 

Mele LIKILIKI:

On the rare occasion that any pretending attacker sneaks through the miserly Tongan defence, Likiliki is continually on hand to literally demolish anything in her path. Has assumed the captaincy for the South Pacific Games, with her aggresive style and vocal support noticably permeating through her squad. 

 

Sala VEAMATAHAU:

The ambitious Veamatahau was a prominent figure in the match against Samoa, making several key interventions at both ends of the field. Not afraid to shoot on sight, the tall defensive midfielder could well decide the game if Fiji fail to mark her closely.

 

 

TAHITI

Yakeula is a colossus at the back for Tahiti, with her dominant and uncompromising style of play. Not only is she strong in the tackle, but also possesses skills to run the ball from defence and release dangerous through balls for her impressive attacking counterparts.

 

Maima MARMOUYET:

The main creative architect of Tahiti's expansive attacking play, Marmouyet is not averse to swinging an attempt at goal from the dead ball or open play. Exhibits a full array of tricks on both feet, and has a tidy passing game to boot.

 

Gloria HAUATA:

Electric striker that is the focal point of most Tahitian attacks, and works very well in tandem with Tania Bonnefin.  The pacey Hauata has the ability to shoot off both feet - especially keen to hit the ball on the volley with her right.

 

 

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Daisy WINAS:

Arguably the most talented player at the tournament. Winas is fast, skilful, and unselfish - and should have a massive future in the game.

 

Lydia BANABAS:

The energetic Banabas sits at the top of the Papua New Guinean midfield, joining in on all aspects of play. Has the uncanny ability to pop up at almost every loose ball, reading the game as though it were to a script.

 

Tracey KIG:

A perfect complement to Winas and Banabas, Kig is an aggressive, front-running goalpoacher with deceptive pace and strength. Comfortable with the ball at her feet, and intelligent enough to hold the ball when required.

 

Samoa were unceremoniously, but valiantly exiled from their own tournament today at the hands of close rivals Tonga.

Heading into the match knowing that a win would see them qualify for the semi-finals and a likely encounter with Oceanic heavyweights Fiji, the task seemed relatively simple for the host nation – score more goals than Tonga.

With exciting prospects such as Florence Lam Sam and Natalie Davies promising so much against Tahiti and New Caledonia earlier in the tournament, it looked positive from the outset for Samoa. They maintained nigh-on constant pressure for the majority of the fixture, with only the unique Penateti Feke posing any real threat when she burst away in counter-attack mode for Tonga.

Samoa were almost their own worst enemies, as they had plenty of possession but just could not hit the target enough to make Mele Likiliki earn her keep between the sticks for Tonga. However it does need to be addressed that when required, Likiliki was outstanding on the night – also assuming the mantle of captaining her country.

It was a fixture where each country’s water-tight defences cancelled each other out, with Samoa’s Henifa Bryce dispatching anything that looked like heading goalwards deep into the surrounding night sky, including a battered Feke on numerous occasions.

To Feke’s credit, she bounced back every time – and this will be a quality that is for certain required when Tonga faces Fiji on Wednesday.

A huge, vocal crowd had gathered at the Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Playing Fields – and when the final whistle blew, a disbelieving silence wrung louder than the multilingual chants that had graced the previous 90 minutes.

The tournament moves to the semi-final stages now, with Wednesday dictating who will get the chance to play off in the tournament final – and ultimately a shot at New Zealand to qualify for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

 

WEDNESDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 2007

1500 (GMT-13)   Tahiti v Papua New Guinea
1500 (GMT-13)   Fiji v Tonga

^{*times subject to change for television coverage}

 

LIVE UPDATES:

1' - the match is underway on a mild evening in Apia, with a modest but vocal crowd on hand

2' - Tamasailau Leuta hits a powerful drive from the angle, but Mele Likiliki is equal to the task with a strong left hand

2' - Florence Lam Sam is down injured from a late challenge, and leaves the field for treatment

4' - Samoa are enjoying a spell of sustained pressure in Tonga's defensive half

7' - Lam Sam is back on the field for Samoa

10' - save for two counter-attacks, Samoa has completely dominated the game thus far

12' - the crowd is streaming in, with locals moving to the football from other events around the Faleata Sports Complex

15' - Rosa Malama Solomona saves bravely at the feet of Penateti Feke, but takes a knock and requires brief treatment on the pitch

20' - Samoa is well and truly on top at this stage, but with no reward

22' - Tonga win a corner, but the ball is quickly dispatched back into the Tonga defensive half

27' - Semeatu Lemana turns to release a shot destined for the left corner of the net, but Likiliki produces a top-drawer save to concede a corner

28' - Claire Meni brings down Feke at full pace, conceding a free kick from which Tonga narrowly clear the crossbar from Matelita Misinale's head

33' - the Samoan defence recognises the threat of Feke bringing her down again, this time requiring treatment

35' - Solomona moves well to meet Salome Vaunuku's free kick from the left hand side

37' - Solomona again beats two Tongan frontrunners to the ball, which ricochets for Meni to clear and Samoa to return on attack

38' - Likiliki leaves her line to claim a high cross on her chest, through a pack of players

39' - Salote Lautaha has a go from distance, but her shot is well right for a goal kick

41' - Solomona is down again following a collision with Lautaha, requiring further treatment

-- 3 minutes added time --

45'+2 - Salome Veamatahau rattles the crossbar with a dipping left foot volley from 30 yards 

 

HALF TIME: TON 0 SAM 0 

 

47' - Marylynn Williams drives an early free kick straight into the Tongan wall

48' - the crowd is still building for what should be an entertaining second half, with a victory for either side seeing them continue in the competition

52' - the match is more evenly poised after the break, with Tonga enjoying time in Samoa's half

55' - #16. Marylynn WILLIAMS makes way for #12 June TUPOU

56' - Sala Veamatahau attempts to break the net from 40 yards, but her shot tails wide

57' - Samoa hit Tonga on the break, but can not register a shot on target

62' - the game is filtering from end to end, but with no clear opportunities for either side 

71' - the game is still at a stalemate, with Tonga looking to hold the scoreline and qualify for the semi finals

77' - #8. Neomai TUPOU makes way for #13. Makeleta FOLAUMOETAO

80' - Feke lines up from a 25 yard free kick, but shoots well over 

83' - #6. Anarosa SIMONE makes way for #19. Sinaro PIO as Samoa search for the goal that would qualify them for the semi-finals

84' - Likiliki rescues Tonga when a loose ball runs through traffic from a Samoan free kick

86' - Feke is cut down on her route to goal in what looks like a penalty, but the referee signals a goal kick 

88' - #18. Maumea MAFI receives a yellow card for a vital foul preventing a Samoan counter attack

88' - Feke is down again in the box, this time a little less suspiciously

-- 2 minutes added time --

 

FULL TIME: TON 0 SAM 0 

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Women’s Group B

Match Day 5 – 2030 – 3 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

   

TONGA: 1. Mele LIKILIKI [gk][c]; 3. Kula FILO; 4. Pesalini LAVE; 5. Sala VEAMATAHAU; 7. Salome VAENUKU; 8. Neomai TUPOU (13. Makeleata FOLAUMOETAO 77'); 10. Heilala LOTOANIU; 11. Matelita MISINALE; 12. Penateti FEKE; 15. Salote LAUTAHA; 18. Maumea MAFI.

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 2. Mele NIKAPAU; 6. Olive MATEIALONA; 14. Unise HAFOKA; 16. Karen UTAATU; 17. Lose PELE; 19. Uluaki KAUFUSI; 20. Elenoa LAUHINGOA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended: 9. Atelaite MANU.

Not available:  

 

Cautions: 18. Maumea MAFI (88').

Red cards:

Goal scorers:  

SAMOA: 1. Rosa Malama SOLOMONA [gk]; 3. Henifa BRYCE; 4. Claire MENI; 5. Leti TAMASESE; 6. Anarosa SIMONE (Sinaro PIO 83'); 7. Semeatu LEMANA; 9. Natalie DAVIES; 10. Florence LAM SAM; 13. Tamasailau LEUTA; 14. Vaitofigalumepa TIPERIA; 16. Marylynn WILLIAMS (12. June TUPOU 55').

Coach: Junior SAAGA

Substitutes not used: 2. Helena THOMPSON; 15. Rasela PEILUA; 18. Saini UMUTAUA; 20. Rosina IAKOPO; 21. Kalaponi LEATO.

Injured: 11. Rosei LEOTA; 17. Havira TAYLOR.

Suspended:

Not available: 

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers:

   

Referee: Chris LENGATA (SOL)

Assistant Referee: Jackson NAMO (SOL)

Assistant Referee: Hamilton SIAU (SOL)

Fourth Official: Jacques AVERII (TAH)

 

 

Seule Soromon was too hot to handle for plucky Tonga at Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field today as the pacy striker reeled off a stunning first half hat-trick that formalised Vanuatu's semi-final spot.

But Vanuatu had to overcome a bright start by Tonga who showed some improvement at various stages of each fixture highlighting the value of playing matches regularly at this level of the game.

For ten minutes Tonga looked more than competitive as Vanuatu come off second best in contesting possession but the promising start ran into a hiccup when Soromon scored his first goal after 23 minutes when he turned Matana Paongo on the edge of the box and scored with a neat finish past Kavakava to make it 1-0.

Tonga never came to terms with this body blow as Papani received a yellow card moments before Soromon burst through Tonga's ponderous back four before scoring his and Vanuatu's second goal. Tonga's despondency at falling further behind was palpable and with their semi-final hopes already over and Vanuatu's all but signed off the match entered a flat patch it didn't quite recover from.

Soromon was the exception to this general theme when he pounced upon his hat-trick after Vanuatu skipper Moise Poida's initial shot was parried by Manumua the rebound falling gratefully into the number 10's path.

Malakai Savieti pulled one back for Tonga after 49 minutes but the match was over as a contest long before substitute Victor Maleb scored with virtually his first touch of the match on 75 minutes after Francois Sakama carved Tonga open and ripped a peach of a cross into Maleb's line of vision.

 

 

LIVE UPDATES:

0'- A humid afternoon in Apia greets the national teams of Tonga and Vanuatu in this final match in Group B

1'- Tonga make early in-roads with Kamaliele PAPANI spraying a wonderful pass out wide to Mark UTATAHI whose header is cleared by Chikau MANSALE

3'- Vanuatu take control of possession but Tonga make for a physically formidable defensive unit 

5'- Kavakava MANUMUA is called upon to make a sprawling save at the feet of Seule SOROMON

7'- Vanuatu take a corner that is palmed away by KAVAKAVA for Tonga

10'- Francois SAKAMA collects a nod down in the penalty area from Rexley TARIVUTI and shoots straight at Kavakava MANUMUA

12'- Ilalio LEAKONA tries to play a pass through for Kaisani UHATAHI but its cut out by Tom Philip TOMAKE

13'- Unaloto FEAO unleashes a powerful strike but Kavakava MANUMUA makes a good save 

14'- TOMAKE gives away possession for Vanuatu in a dangerous area and Ilalio LEAKONA's shot is saved by Chikau MANSALE

16'- This is developing into an intriguing battle - Tonga has improved with each match, looked at least the physical equal of any team in Samoa, it seems they are peaking toward the end of the 1st round - what would Tonga be like with more preparation?

17'- Vanuatu keep the ball well but are rushing their final pass into the top third - SOROMON, Fenedy MASAUVAKALO and Moise POIDA look accomplished on the ball

18'- The singing from the SAMOA v SOLOMON ISLANDS drifts across Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field reminding us of the host nation's final match

21'- SOROMON fires a shot over the bar - no danger for Tonga but Vanuatu are getting into their stride now

23'- GOAL!

#10. Seule SOROMON turns his marker on the edge of the box and shoots past Kavakava MANUMUA - it's 1-0 to Vanuatu!

Solomon Islands has taken the lead against Samoa so its 1-0 in both Group B fixtures...

25'- Vanuatu look more comfortable now they have a 1-0 lead. The wind has been taken out of Tonga's sails somewhat

30'- YELLOW CARD

#8. Kamaliele PAPANI goes into referee Job Ponis  MINAN's book

31'- The goal has had a big effect on both teams with Vanuatu now looking very confident. POIDA shoots and forces a save from MANUMUA

32'- Kavakava punches away a cross from Andrew CHICHURA of Vanuatu 

33'- GOAL!

#10. Seule SOROMON puts Vanuatu firmly in control after the Tonga defence is caught square allowing SOROMON to place a tidy effort

35'- Andrew CHICHURA shoots but MANUMUA saves well

35'- SUBSTITUTION

#5. Matana PAONGO is replaced by #19. Lisaniasi KAINGA for Tonga

36'- News filters through that Solomon Islands Benjamin TOTORI has put his country ahead 2-0 over Samoa

37'- Francois SAKAMA's blistering pace takes him clear of Tonga's Folio MOEAKI as he blazes a wild shot wide of the target

40'- GOAL!

#10. Seule SOROMON completes a first-half hat-trick courtesy of Tonga goalkeeper MANUMUA's parried stop from Moise POIDA and it's 3-0 to Vanuatu!

42'- It's almost 4-0 as MANUMUA juggles a POIDA corner in his hands and nearly loses the ball at SAKAMA's feet 

44'- SOROMON is put clear and is followed by Folio MOEAKI who fouls but SOROMON falls rather easily and wins a free kick

-- 1 minute time added on --

45'+1 - The free kick is hungrily clutched by MANUMUA as referee MINAN blows for half time

HALF-TIME: TON 0 VAN 3

46'- The second half gets underway with Vanuatu in total control

46'- SUBSTITUTION

#8. Tom Phillip TOMAKE is replaced by #19. Derek MALAS of Vanuatu

47'- Lisaniasi KAINGA announces his intentions with a long range shot from 26 yards that thuds into the gloves of MANUMUA

49'- Vanuatu win three corners on the trot as POIDA peppers the Tonga six yard box with dangerous inswinging deliveries - Tonga get the ball clear at last and the pressure eases off

49'- GOAL!

#11. Malakai SAVIETI scores for Tonga! Is this a comeback?!

53'- Tonga get a rare chance but Malakai SAVIETI gets the ball tangled in his feet as Vanuatu clear up any danger

60'- Vanuatu's Fenedy MASAUVAKALO breaks through one-on-one with MANUMUA but the Tongan keeper blocks the attempt with his frame

63'- With Vanuatu and Solomon Islands in control of both matches an air of inevitability has descended on Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field

63'- SUBSTITUTION

#21. Maki HAITONG is replaced by #16. Richard IWAI for Vanuatu

64'- SUBSTITUTION

#7. Sione Vea TAHITUA is replaced by #16. Sione TOVO for Tonga

65'- The rain is falling steadily here in Apia and looks like its here to stay with the sky filled by dark grey cloud - both pitches are in desperate need of moisture and it looks like they will get plenty of it in the coming days

68-' Seule SOROMON's searing pace takes him clear of the Tonga defence but MANUMUA saves well 

69'- Corner conceded by Tonga but it comes to nothing...

73'- SAKAMA races down the right squares the ball for POIDA whose shot goes just wide

74'- SUBSTITUTION

#10. Seule SOROMON is replaced by #15. Victor MALEB

75'- GOAL!

#15. Victor MALEB finishes a lovely cross by Francois SAKAMA and it's a goal for Vanuatu - inspired substitution by coach Alwyn JOB

81'- Long range shot from MALEB is deflected out for a corner which is subsequently cleared by the Tonga defence

82'- Solomon Islands lead Samoa 3-0 so it looks certain that Vanuatu and Solomon Islands will qualify for the semi-finals as predicted 

84'- The match has lost much of its sting as Vanuatu know they have bigger matches to come...Tonga realise that its the end of the road for their South Pacific Games/FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign

87'- Tonga corner delivered by Pio PALU and finds Lafaele MOALA free but MOALA sends the ball searing inches over the crossbar when it looked easier to score!

90'- SUBSTITUTION

#1. Kavakava MANUMUA  replaced by #21. Kinikini KAU for Tonga

-- 2 minutes time added on --

90'+2- Referee Job Ponis MINAN blows for fulltime and it is Vanuatu who progress to the semi-finals and Tonga who bid farewell to Apia, Samoa.

 

FULL TIME: TON 1 VAN 4

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Men’s Group B

Match Day 5 – 1230 – 3 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

 

TONGA: 1. Kavakava MANUMEA (21. Kinikini KAU 90'+2); 4. Folio MOEAKI; 5. Matana PAONGO (19. Lisaniasi KAINGA 36'); 6. Pio PALU; 7. Sione Vea TAHITUA (16. Sione TOVO 65'); 8. Kamaliele PAPANI; 9. Ilalio LEAKONA; 11. Malakai SAVIETI; 12. Lafaele MOALA; 14. Kaisani UHATAHI; 17. Semisi TUIFANGALAOKA.

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 3. Kava HUIHAHAU; 10. Unaloto FEAO; 13. Mark UTATAHI; 15. Tevita TAKAI; 18. Kaliopasi UELE; 20. Kaneti FELELA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended: None.

Not available: 2. Sione Ongoi UHATAHI.

Cautions: 8. Kamaliele PAPANI (30').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 11. Malakai SAVIETI (50').

VANUATU: 20. Chikau MANSALE [gk]; 3. Ken MASAUVAKALO; 4. Rexley TARIVUTI; 5. Andrew CHICHIRUA; 6. Fedy VAVA; 7. Moise POIDA; 8. Tom Philip TOMAKE (19. Derek MALAS 46'); 10. Seule SOROMON (15. Victor MALEB 75'); 12. Fenedy MASAUVAKALO; 13. Francois SAKAMA; 21. Maki HAITONG (16. Richard IWAI 62').

Coach: Robert CALVO

Substitutes not used: 1. David CHILIA [gk]; 2. Samson OBED; 9. Jean Nako NAPRAPOL; 11. Etienne MERMER; 17. Geoffrey Lego GETE; 18. Jacques MAFIL NAWAN.

Injured: 14. Pita David MAKI.

Suspended:

Not available:

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 10. Seule SOROMON (24', 34', 41'); 15. Victor MALEB (76').

Referee: Job Ponis MINAN (PNG)

Assistant Referee: Rohitesh DAYAL (FIJ)

Assistant Referee: Hilary ANI (PNG)

Fourth Official: Rodney ALLEN (AUS) 

 

 

Tonga did the bare minimum required to win this match yet it will be American Samoa who will feel happier after signing off their and FIFA World Cup qualifying capaign by achieving their least worst defeat of the XIII South Pacific Games.

This must've been the most enjoyable match of the tournament for American Samoa's beleaguered young goalkeeper Jordan Penitusi as his team refused to disintegrate in the face of the usual amount of time spent without possession of the ball.

Penitusi also enjoyed several good moments making saves from Moala and Maiava of Tonga throughout a spell of 37 minutes in which American Samoa themselves created two half decent goal scoring chances that for once at this tournament had them looking - at the least - somewhat competitive.

Tonga, by contrast, were their own worst enemies missing a raft of good chances to score the worst by Mark Utatahi who had the goal at his mercy but shot tamely straight into the grateful arms of Penitusi.

American Samoa's resistance came to an end in the 37th minute when referee Job Ponis Minan awarded a stonewall penalty when Natia Natia grabbed a handful of Kaliopasi Uele's shirt as he sped goalwards. Lafaele Moala made no mistake with the spot-kick to give Tonga a 1-0 half-time break.

Tonga's earlier wastefulness in front of goal was replaced by a harder edge in the second half with Pio Palu scoring twice in a seven minute spell between the 54th and 61st minutes. The goals settled Tonga who went on to add a fourth goal 4 minutes from the end when Kaisani Utatahi hit an unstoppable shot on the angle past Penitusi into the top right hand corner of the net.

Tonga only have pride left to play for with even a freak high scoring victory over Vanuatu on the final day of group play unlikely to be enough to see them sneak into the semi-finals through the back door.

For American Samoa the 4-0 loss spells the end of another South Pacific Games Men's Football Tournament and FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign but they can at least draw comfort that in their final match they achieved their best result in years.

LIVE UPDATES:

0'- National anthems are concluded as both teams perform a stirring simultaneous haka to the delight of the spectators

4’- American Samoa free kick by Oesamino Victor flies well wide

6’- Tonga’s Pio Palu shoots but his shot flies away harmlessly

8’- Tonga's Kaliopasi UELE passes to Sione TOVO who blasts a long range shot against an American Samoa defender

11'- American Samoa have made a decent start to the match - can they keep that going?

12'- Ramin OTT breaks clear and unleashes a shot from 30m but his effort poses no danger to Kavakava MANUMUA in the Tonga goal

14'- Mark UTATAHI shoots from 20m out but is well wide

15'- American Samoa are battling gamely and Tonga have not yet found their feet in this match

16'- Kaliopasi UELE shoots and the ball cannons off the crossbar and is fired straight back into UELE's path whose second shot cracks into PENITUSI's left hand post and is cleared from danger

20'- American Samoa's Pesamino VICTOR takes a corner but the ball goes out

21'- UELE lifts a ball to the far post but Jordan PENITUSI saves easily

23'- Tonga midfielder Kaliopasi UELE breaks clear down the right before lofting in a cross-come-shot that disappears harmlessly over PENITUSI and American Samoa's crossbar

24'- Tonga's ball movement is good but they are unable to get a penetrating ball past American Samoa as they are defending so deeply

26'- American Samoa striker Tafuna TOILOLO holds the ball up on the edge of the Tonga 18 yard box and is surrounded by a posse of defenders who win the ball and quickly counter-attack

27'- Play is held up as TOILOLO receives medical treatment on the edge of the Tonga 18 yard box

29'- The match has restarted with TOILOLO awaiting referee Job Ponis MINAN's permission to return to the action

30'- Throw-in for Tonga deep inside American Samoa's half - the ball is headed clear by Thomas LEOTA

31'- Tonga's Lafaele MOALA goes on a powerful solo run into the American Samoa box but Jordan PENITUSI rushes out and gathers the ball

32'- Tonga hit the crossbar with a shot from long range and the ball is hacked clear by American Samoa

33'- Ramin OTT has a speculative long range on the angle from 25m but MANUMUA saves easily

34'- Tonga have more pace and mobility than American Samoa but they seem unable to find a breakthrough - a long ball from Jordan PENITUSI finds Ramin OTT up front for American Samoa but Semisi TUIFANGALOKA clears the danger

35'- A defensive error by American Samoa and Mark UTATAHI is clean through but his shot goes past PENITUSI's far post

36'- American Samoa's Hansel MAIAVA shoots over the Tonga crossbar from 20m out

37'- PENALTY!

American Samoa give a away needless penalty - this could be just the chance Tonga need to settle into the match - but a tragedy for David Brand's team after all their hard work...

37'- GOAL!

#12. Lafaele MOALA scores for Tonga after American Samoa's Natia NATIA commits a careless and unneccessary foul

41'- Tonga have most of the possession but still cannot take a grip of the match as American Samoa defend bravely

43'- American Samoa is awarded a free kick after an ugly series of mistakes by both teams near the edge of American Samoa's 18 yard box...and Tonga's Kaliopasi UELE is left injured on the ground

45'- Referee MINAN indicates there will be a minimum of two minutes of time added on

-- 2 minutes added on --

45'+2- The first half is brought to an add with Tonga leading American Samoa 1-0, a scoreline that will please American Samoa coach David Brand rather more than Tonga coach Kilifi UELE

HALF-TIME: TON 1 ASA 0

46'- Second half gets underway with Tonga making a substitution...

46'- SUBSTITUTION

#18. Kaliopasi UELE is replaced by #5. Matana PAONGO

47'- The match is still relatively even as American Samoa do their best to defend

48'- Tonga freekick from 35m taken by Folio MOEAKI is gathered by Jordan PENITUSI

50'- Sione TOVO wastes an excellent chance for Tonga after he is put through one on one with PENITUSI only for TOVO to hit a weak shot that PENITUSI deals with easily

51'- American Samoa corner taken by Tafuna TOILOLO is headed straight up into the air by a Tongan defender and then cleared

54'- GOAL!

#6. Pio PALU latches onto a through ball and bears down on PENITUSI before shooting straight at the American Samoan goalkeeper, the ball ricochets off PENITUSI straight back into PALU before a defender clears off the line...there was some uncertainty as to whether the ball crossed the line or not...but Assistant Referee Michael NUGUS says it did and it's Tonga 2, American Samoa 0!

59'- Ramin OTT and Tafuna TOILOLO combine and OTT fires a shot narrowly over the Tonga crossbar

61'- GOAL!

#6. Pio PALU breaks through and shoots for goal, PENITUSI dives low to his right and gets a hand to the ball but its not enough to prevent Tonga going 3-0 up

63'- Sione TOVO tries to hook a cross back into the danger zone but his effort spins over the American Samoa crossbar for a goal kick

65'- American Samoa can be proud of their performance today but it would be a shame if they conceded more goals after all their efforts

69'- American Samoa on the attack and Thomas LEOTA is into the Tonga 18 yard box but goalkeeper Kavakava MANUMUA rushes out and dives at LEOTA's feet as LEOTA shoots - the ball breaks clear from danger

71'- Tonga counter-attack and Sione Vea TAHITUA shoots wide

74'- SUBSTITUTION

#22 Alexander VICTOR is replaced by #18 Frankie SILAO for American Samoa

76'- SUBSTITUTION

#10. Unaloto FEAO is replaced by #11. Malakai SAVIETI for Tonga

80'- Tonga shoot from an acute angle but it never endangers American Samoa's goal

81'- SUBSTITUTION

#7. Thomas LEOTA is replaced by #13 Johnny SAELUA for American Samoa

82'- SUBSTITUTION

#13. Lafaele MOALA is replaced by #19. Lisaniasi KAINGA for Tonga

83'- Malakai SAVIETI shoots wide for Tonga

85'- Sione TOVO goes close for Tonga but PENITUSI saves

86'- GOAL!

Tonga go 4-0 up thanks to a wicked left foot shot on the angle from the edge of the penalty area by #14. Kaisani UHATAHI

90'- Tonga hit the American Samoa crossbar and the ball is scurried clear...

-- 2 minutes time added on --

90'+2- The referee blows up for fulltime and Tonga take the points but American Samoa can be very proud of the way they played

FULL TIME TON 4 ASA 0

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Men’s Group B

Match Day 4 – 1230 – 1 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

 

TONGA: 1. Kavakava MANUMUA; 4. Folio MOEAKI; 6. Pio PALU; 7. Sione Vea TAHITUA; 10. Unaloto FEAO (11. Malakai SAVIETI 76'); 12. Lafaele MOALA; 13. Mark UHATAHI (19. Lisaniasi KAINGA 82'); 14. Kaisani UHATAHI; 16. Sione TOVO; 17. Semisi TUIFANGALOKA; 18. Kaliopasi UELE (5. Matana PAONGO 46').

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 15. Tevita TAKAI; 20. Kaneti FELELA [gk]; 21. Kinikini KAU [gk].

Injured: 2. Sione Ongoi UHATAHI; 3. Kava HUIHAHAU; 9. Ilalio LEAKONA

Suspended: 8. Kamaliele PAPANI. 

Not available: None.

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 12. Lafaele MOALA (37'); 6. Pio PALU (54', 61'); 14. Kaisani UHATAHI (87') 

AMERICAN SAMOA: 24. Jordan PENITUSI [gk]; 3. Pita SINIPATI (20. Sue TONISE 88'); 4. Pesamino VICTOR; 7. Thomas LEOTA (13. Johnny SAELUA 81'); 8. Natia NATIA; 11. Maika MOLESI; 12. Hansel MAIAVA; 14. Tafuna TOILOLO; 15. Uasilaa HELETA; 19. Ramin OTT; 22. Alexander VICTOR (18. Frankie SILAO 74'). 

Coach: David BRAND.

Substitutes not used: 6. Ieti TAULEALO; 9. Ieti TAULEALO; 10. Kitiona FAATAMALA; 16. Ieti IETI; 17. Alo VAKATAU;

Suspended: 2. Terence SINAPATI. 

Not available: 1. Nicky SALAPU.

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers:

Referee: Job Ponis MINAN (PNG)

Assistant Referee: Brent BEST (NZL)

Assistant Referee: Michael NUGUS (AUS)

Fourth Official:

 

Tahiti and Tonga fought out an ill-tempered 0-0 draw at the XIII South Pacific Games Women's Football Tournament this morning with referee Nelson Sogo handing out no less than six yellow cards - three to each team - in a dour fixture at Toleafoa J.S.Blatter Football Fields in Apia.

Tonga went the closest to scoring as early as the 7th minute when Penateti Feke turned inside her marker and blasted a fierce shot against the face of the Tahiti crossbar from just 9 yards out.

The rest of the 1st half became a tedious affair as both midfields cancelled each other out with fierce tackles and rough physical play the order of the day.

Tahiti's best chance of the 1st half came when Gloria Hauta fired a free kick against the Tongan wall and Jeanne Mahiatapu fired the rebound searing over the crossbar for a goal kick.

Tahiti skipper Mismosa Marmouyet had Tonga in a bind moments later when she swung in a dangerous ball that flashed across the face of Mele Likiliki's six yard box before pinballing its way to safety after taking a series of random deflections in a crowded box.

The final act of a tough first half saw Penateti Feke sent through one on one with Tahiti goalkeeper Poroni Turana who sped off her line at top speed before clattering Feke off her feet without making contact with the ball.

The second-half never rose to any great heights as a spectacle with referee Nelson Sogo forced to book six players starting with Tahiti's Josiane Tauraa.

The contagion soon spread with Sogo issuing a further five yellow cards in an 11 minute period - all justified - as both team's became frustrated with each other, the most notable a double booking for Yakeula of Tahiti and Manu of Tonga after the pair engaged in a push-shove match on halfway right in front of the fourth official's desk.

With a draw not doing any harm to either team's semi-final aspirations the match petered out to a 0-0 draw that gave both teams a temporary four point buffer between them and third place.

 LIVE UPDATES:

0’- Tahiti and Tonga line-up as the national anthems ring out around Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field, on this wonderful and sunny morning in Apia, Samoa. 

0’- The MC reads out the two team line-ups with Tahiti naming the same line-up that so comprehensively dismantled Samoa two days ago. Tonga’s line-up is also unchanged in what promises to be a fascinating encounter. 

1’- The match gets underway with Tonga applying early pressure   

3’- Tonga get the first corner of the match

7'- So close! Tonga hit the crossbar as Tahiti struggle to come to terms with Tonga's powerful start.

12'- Angela TAIRUI is involved in a tough challenge with her opposite number and after receiving treatment is helped from the pitch

15'- TAIRUI returns to the action

18'- Jeanne MAHIATAPU shoots at Tonga's goal but Mele Likiliki dives low to her left and palms the ball away to keep the score locked at 0-0

20'- Tahiti get a freekick and shoot for goal but no danger

21'- Tahiti's Mimosa MARMOYOUET bombs a freekick into the Tonga six yard box but its all too easy for Tonga captain and goalkeeper Mele LIKILIKI and takes the catch comfortably

24'- The match is turning into a midfield struggle with strong tackles and frequent turnover of possession the order of the day for both Tonga and Tahiti with neither side able to assert dominance

26'- Tonga free-kick fired in on target by Penateti FEKE but Tahiti goalkeeper Poroni TURANA makes a regulation save at the near post

27'- Tahiti's Jeanne MAHIATAPU shoots for goal but LIKILIKI saves

28'- A free kick is given to Tahiti as play breaks down from the shot. Gloria HAUTA takes the free kick and it cannons into the wall and rebounds to Jeanne MAHIATAPU who sends her shot flying inches over the crossbar

31'- MARMOUYET whips in a dangerous corner and Tonga are at panic stations as the ball bobbles about the six yard box before being hacked clear

33'- Tonga counter-attack and FEKE plays the ball into the danger area as Poroni TURANA, Tahiti's goalkeeper, is called on to make two instinctive saves to keep her team in the match

35'- Tonga's Neomai TUPOU is having a strong running performance in midfield

36'- Free kick to Tahiti is cleared and the score remains 0-0

37'- MARMOUYET is on the receiving end of a crunching tackle by Atelaite MANU but referee Nelson SOGO of Solomon Islands waves play on

42'- The match is a war of attrition in midfield with neither side able to assert their dominance on this match. Tahiti have yet to reproduce their form from the match against Samoa two days ago and the experience of Tonga at this level is starting to show.

43'- A through ball puts Penateti FEKE through on goal for Tonga but Tahiti goalkeeper Poroni TURANA clatters into the striker and the ball trundles out for a goal kick

44'- Tonga's Matelita MISINALE is offside

45'- Penateti FEKE hits a sweet cross into the Tahiti six yard box and the ball eludes two oncoming Tongan players as Tahiti race to get the ball clear

45'+1 - Gloria HAUATA of Tahiti is injured and requires attention as referee Nelson SOGO brings the first half to a close as the score remains Tahiti 0, Tonga 0

HALF-TIME: TAH 0 TON 0

46'- The second half gets underway with Tahiti making early in-roads but Mele LIKILIKI gathers the ball and the danger has passed for Tonga

49'- The midfield battle continues as Tonga win a corner after Penateti FEKE tangles with Maruina TOM SING VIEN

49'- The corner flies into the penalty area and Tonga's Sala VEAMATAHAU shoots and its tipped away for yet another corner

50'- Tonga have the upper hand in this match as Tahiti seem to be unable to reproduce their performance against Samoa

51'- A long ball is played into the Tonga 18 yard box and Pesalini LAVE heads the ball clear for Tonga

53'- Salote LAUTAHA sprints into the Tahiti penalty area with Patricia YAKEULA for company as YAKEULA cleverly heads the ball back to goalkeeper TURANA

60'- Maumea MAFI of Tonga is injured in after taking a tumble near halfway close to the fourth official's bench

61'- The match is a stalemate in every respect and it is difficult to see how these two teams can be seperated - a draw would be a reasonable result for both teams...

62'- MAFI returns to the pitch for Tonga after receiving treatment on the sideline

63'- YELLOW CARD

#3. Josaine TAURAA of Tahiti goes into the book for a hefty challenge on Pesalini LAVE of Tonga

65'- Freekick for Tonga which Penateti FEKE fires at the goalkeeper.

65'- YELLOW CARD

#15. Salote LAUTAHA joins TAURAA in referee Nelson SOGO's book

67'- YELLOW CARD

#18. Maumea MAFI is the second Tonga player to be booked by Nelson SOGO as the match begins to get scrappy

69'- Corner for Tahiti is wasted by MARMOUYET and Tonga breathe a sigh of relief as the score remains 0-0

72'- Free kick to Tonga as FEKE floats a ball in to the far post which the Tahiti defence deals with easily

73'- The match needs one of the coaches to make a substitution to try and inject something new into proceedings...maybe both team's would be happy with a draw after all?

75'- Tonga earn a corner after LAUTAHA's shot is deflected out by the Tahiti defence

76'- FEKE's corner goes straight back to her and she shoots again and the ball richochets off the defender for another corner

76'- FEKE's second corner is cleared by Angelina THUNOT of Tahiti

76'- YELLOW CARD

#2. Patricia YAKEULA of Tahiti is booked for her part in an ugly confrontation with Atelaite MANU

76'- YELLOW CARD

#9. Atelaite MANU joins YAKEULA in SOGO's growing list of players

77'- Corner for Tonga taken by FEKE and the ball is cleared off the knee of Josaine TAURAA of Tahiti

80'- FEKE crosses for MANU but MANU's header goes wide and its a goal kick for Tahiti

81'- Tonga go close but TURANA saves Tahit

82'- Tonga have another strike on goal by MANU again but the ball whistles over the crossbar by centimetres

84'- Salote LAUTAHA shoots at goal for Tonga but the ball blazes high and wide

84'- YELLOW CARD

#7. Mimosa MARMOUYET of Tahiti becomes the latest player to receive a yellow card in what has become a dour match

86'- SUBSTITUTION

Tahiti make a double substitution:

#6. Angelina THUNOT is replaced by #13. Felicite KAIHA

#7. Maimosa MARMOUYET is replaced by #15. Gwendoline TEPEA

90'- The 90 minutes are up and referee Nelson SOGO indicates to the fourth official that there will be an additional 5 minutes of time added on

90'+1- The match enters time added on with Tahiti and Tonga looking happy enough with a 0-0 result

90'+2- One of the least enthralling matches of the XIII South Pacific Games - Samoa 2007 is petering out for a 0-0 bore draw here at Toleafoa J.S.Blatter Football Fields

90'+5- FULLTIME

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Women’s Group B

Match Day 4 – 1000 – 1 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa  

TAHITI: 1. Poroni TURANA; 2. Patricia YAKEULA; 3. Josaine TAURAA; 4. Maruina TOM SING VIEN; 5. Angela TAIRUI; 6. Angelina THUNOT (13. Felicite KAIHA 86'); 7. Mimosa MARMOUYET (15. Gwendoline TEPEA 86'); 8. Lavema TARIHAA; 9. Tania BONNEFIN; 10. Gloria HAUATA; 11. Jeanne MAHIATAPU.

Coach: Ralph APURII

Substitutes not used: 12. Maima MARMOUYET; 14. Sandrine TEAUNA; 16. Juliana MAETA; 17. Monique TOKORAGI; 18. Nathalie TOPA; 20. Wilhermine MAIRAU.

Injured: None.

Suspended: None.

Not available: None.  

Cautions: 3. Josaine TAURAA (63'); 2. Patricia YAKEULA (76'); 7. Mimosa MARMOUYET (84')

Red cards:

Goal scorers:  

TONGA: 1. Mele LIKILIKI; 3. Kulia FILO; 4. Pesalini LAVE; 5. Saa VEAMATAHAU; 7. Salome VAENUKU; 8. Neomai TUPOU; 9. Atelaite MANU; 11. Matelita MISINALE; 12. Penateti FEKE; 15. Salote LAUTAHA; 18. Maumea MAFI.

Coach: Kilife UELE  

Substitutes not used: 6. Olive MATEIALONA; 10. Heilala LOTOANIU; 13. Makeleta FOLAUMOETAO; 14. Unise HAFOKA; 16. Karen UTAATU; 17. Lose PELE; 19. Uluaki KAUFUSI; 20. Elenoa LAUHINGOA

Injured: 2. Mele NIUKAPU.  

Suspended:

Not available: 

Cautions: 15. Salote LAUTAHA (65'); 18. Maumea MAFI (68'); 9. Atelaite MANU (76') 

Red cards:

Goal scorers:  

 

Referee: Nelson SOGO (SOL)

Assistant Referee: Hilary ANI (PNG)  

Assistant Referee: Rohitesh DAYAL (FIJ)

Fourth Official: Finau VULIVULI (FIJ)

 

Tonga and Tahiti were the winners on Women’s Match Day 3 at the XIII South Pacific Games – Samoa 2007 in a day that saw one upset result and a contender for goal of the tournament.

In Group A, Fiji accounted for a spirited American Samoa 3-0 thanks to two second half goals from Unaisi Moce and a an opener from Adiela Kurikaba. Fiji was made to work hard for their victory as American Samoa adopted a highly defensive approach based around the courage and skill of goalkeeper Filiga Kerisiani.  Fiji’s win sent Farouk Janeman’s team into second spot in the group on goal difference from high-flying Papua New Guinea.

Elsewhere in Group A, Cook Islands striker Teremoana Hewett looked to have put her team’s campaign back on track after she fired home a brilliant right foot volley from an acute angle after 42 minutes against Solomon Islands.

With both teams semi-final hopes depending upon victory Hewett had looked to have handed her country the impetus until a defensive error reminiscent of Cook Islands match against American Samoa handed Solomon Islands a lifeline.

A seemingly harmless pass into Cook Islands defence took the faintest of touches off Solomon Islands Layda Samani on 50 minutes leaving goalkeeper Heimata Heather stranded helpless as the ball trundled into the empty net to give a 1-1 score line.

In Group B, Tonga got off to a solid start when Heilala Lotoaniu latched onto a long ball and left the New Caledonia defence flatfooted before slotting into an empty net. New Caledonia were not without their chances as Marylise Lolo and Lola Tara went close. The result was put beyond doubt when Penateti Feke scored with just 3 minutes remaining to hand Tonga a 2-0 win.

Tahiti caused the biggest shock of the tournament when they dismantled host nation Samoa 4-0 in an exciting match before another big evening crowd. Tahiti were too slick for the host nation in a minor upset at JS Blatter Playing Field in Apia, Samoa, tonight as the debutants from French-Polynesia raced into the lead for a semi-finals berth.

Samoa had all the pre-match pundits picking a comfortable home victory but Tahiti turned in a performance replete with passion, vigour, energy and no little amount of skill. Gloria HAUATA (31’), Tania BONNEFIN (47’) and Maima MARMOUYET (88’) were in red hot form in front of goal while Samoa didn’t help their own cause when they scored an own goal after 34 minutes.

The next fixtures in the XIII South Pacific Games – Samoa 2007 Women’s Football Tournament take place on Saturday 1st September with a four fixtures.

SATURDAY 1st SEPTEMBER 2007

(GMT-13)

Kick-off           Match                                                  Group

1000hrs          Solomon Islands v American Samoa       A

1000hrs          Tahiti v Tonga                                         B                             

1500hrs          Papua New Guinea v Fiji                         A

2030hrs          New Caledonia v Samoa                         B

 

PHOTOS from MATCH DAY 3 ACTION:

 

 

MORE DETAILS OF XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES CAN BE READ AT:

www.oceaniafootball.com

www.samoa2007.ws

www.fifa.com

TONGA 2 (LOTOAINU 47', FEKE 87') NEW CALEDONIA 0 

Penateti Feke showed her class, pace and importance to Tongan women's football this afternoon as she scored the decisive goal that sent Tonga into pole position in XIII South Pacific Games - Samoa 2007 Group B.

Feke - who had a good tournament at the OFC Women's World Cup Qualifying tournament in Lae, Papua New Guinea, earlier this year, was in fine form against a New Caledonia team that was making its debut at this level of international competition.

New Caledonia made Tonga work hard for their victory and gave a good account of themselves in some of the hottest conditions seen since the XIII South Pacific Games got underway.

It was New Caledonia who made the most incisive start of the two teams when Lenka Romone broke through the usually resolute Tongan defence and tested goalkeeper Mele Likiliki with a low shot that had the Tongan custodian scrambling.

After that anxious moment, Feke emerged as a danger everytime she got the ball, missing three chances in quick succession. New Caledonia to their credit were hardly being outclassed and they mustered several useful opportunities of their own through Romone and Marjorie Pouye who were always willing to test Likiliki.

Toward the end of the first half New Caledonia's Marjorie Pouye was put through on Tonga's goal but squandered the chance when Sala Veamatahau intervened with a timely challenge.Pouye's miss came back to haunt New Caledonia when just two minutes after the restart Heilala Lotoaniu latched onto a long ball over the top of the New Caledonia back four, drew the goalkeeper off her line, before completing a tidy finish to give Tonga a 1-0 lead.

New Caledonia hit straight back with Marylise Lolo broke through the Tongan defence forcing Likiliki to race off her line and dive bravely at her feet near the edge of the 18 yard box. The collision left Lolo flat on the deck as the experienced 25-year-old Tonga goalkeeper emerged unscathed.

With just 3 minutes to go the result was put beyond doubt when Feke raced clear of the tiring New Caledonia defence and struck a sweet left foot shot beyond Pouidja and into the back of the net for a decisive second goal.

Tongan coach Kilife Uele was not getting carried away with the result however, offering that "we need to do better - complete more passes, be more uncomprimising on defence and finish our opportunities. In saying that, I'm still very proud of the performance from our girls - especially Penateti, who was very good today."

"For our next match we need to play together more often, and make our outstanding individuals shine through structured team play".

Tonga will certainly have a challenge when they play Tahiti on Saturday September 1, at 1000hrs (GMT-13). Tahiti will go into the match with complete confidence after clinically dispatching a dangerous Samoan side whose talents sharply contradict the 4-0 scoreline suffered against Tahiti this evening. Samoa will look for a result against New Calendonia in the night game on Saturday, which kicks off at 2030hrs (GMT-13).

LIVE UPDATES:

0' - the teams enter the field on a partially cloudy but very humid day, with New Caledonia to kick off

2' - New Caledonia dominate possesion, but Tonga manage to contain them in the middle third

2' - Tonga give away a free kick at the bottom of the circle from which Lenka ROMONE shoots,  but Mele LIKILIKI saves well low 

3' - Penateti FEKE breaks down the right flank for Tonga, but shoots across the face of goal from the angle

5' - FEKE breaks again, this time shooting over the crossbar from a similar position

7' - Lenka ROMONE swings in a corner for New Calendonia, but it is managed well by the Tongan defense

8' - FEKE is through one goal again, but Honorine POUIDJA in the New Caledonian goal is off her line well

10' - Delphine POINRI has a shot on the Tonga goal, but narrowly misses left

11' - Sala VEAMATAHAU intervenes well at the back for Tonga to clear a series of aerial New Caledonian passes

11' - ROMONE has another shot from a deep free kick, which LIKLIKI collects easily

13' - Marjorie POUYE has a shot from distance, but it is wide for a goal kick

15' - Salote LAUTAHA crosses well to the near post, but POUIDJA is equal to the task

16' - Marylise LOLO is through on goal, but LIKLIKI dives well at her feet, and VEAMATAHAU scrambles the loose ball away

17' - Tonga has New Caledonia under pressure in attack as a light drizzle meanders over the J.S. Blatter Playing Fields

20' - POUIDJA punches well in traffic from a lobbed cross

21' - New Caledonia are off the hook with a free kick on the edge of their 18 yard box

21' - #3. Marie WANAKAIJA receives a yellow card for a foul in the corner

22' - Salome VAENUKU's free kick fails to find FEKE at the D, and New Caledonia clear the danger

22' - #18. Lola TARA receives a yellow card while contesting possesion in the middle of the park

24' - POUIDJA is off her line well into oncoming traffic, and secures possesion for New Caledonia

25' - a LOLO corner is cleared will by Kulia FILO, which puts Tonga straight on attack for Heilala LOTOANIU to bend a shot across the face of the New Caledonian goal

30' - Heilala LOTOANIU bears down on goal for Tonga, only for Alice MATHIEU to put in a superb challenge and send the ball for a corner

33' - Tonga fails to register a shot on goal despite another period of concerted pressure around the New Caledonian area

36' - MATHIEU is proving invaluable for New Caledonia, marshalling the defense to allow New Caledonia to gain territory

37' - ROMONE releases a powerful curling volley only metres wide from a LOLO corner, then features again on defense following a quick Tonga attack made possible by a lengthy LIKILIKI goal kick

39' - LOTOANIU checks on a break to provide for Matelita MISINALE, but ROMONE intervenes well for New Caledonia

43' - Stephanie IAKEWE puts Marjorie POUYE through to cross from the bye-line, only for VEAMATAHAU to clear with a strong defensive header 

-- 1 minute added time --

45'+1 - FEKE bears down on a through ball, but POUIDJA is out well again

45'+1 - POUIDJA secures possession for New Caledonia from an awkward through ball

 

HALF TIME: TONGA 0 NEW CALEDONIA 0

 

45' - the second half is underway at an increased pace, despite the Tongan team playing to the crowd and dancing along to the venue's music during the break

47' - GOAL!

#10. Heilala LOTOANIU latches on to a long clearance, draws POUIDJA from her goal, and calmy slots a right-footed finish into the corner of the net...cue more dancing from the Tongan spectators and supporters alike

46' - New Caledonia captain Floraine DIAINON remains lying face-down on the ground from the Tongan break that led to the goal, and leaves the field to receive treatment

48' - LIKILIKI bravely races off her line to collide with LOLO, but wins the ball...leaving LOLO on the ground

51' - LOTOANIU is denied by a solid block from POUIDJA, as the ball bounces across the New Caledonian penalty box

53' - New Caledonia manage consecutive Tongan corners well, to channel possesion back in their favour

57' - New Caledonia captain #6. Floraine DIAINON succumbs to a leg injury, and is replaced by #14. Virginie HOUQUET

62' - play flows freely across the park, as New Caledonia expand their style in search of an equaliser

63' - IAKEWE releases a long range shot, which LIKILIKI collects without trouble

64' - #7. Marjorie POUYE is replaced by #12. Glenda JANE for New Calendonia

66' - FEKE is dangerous on the counter attack for Tonga, forcing a corner which New Calendonia clear well

67' - LOTOANIU is through on goal, but denied well by POUIDJA after releasing her shot early 

69' - #4. Pesalini LAVE receives a yellow card for a crunching challenge on Elodie TEIN-POAWI, who leaves the field for treatment

72' - LOTOANIU has an opportunity to put Tonga another goal ahead, but produces an intelligent stop from POUIDJA

74' - Lola TARA travels across the top of the 18 yard box, and releases a dangerous shot wide

74' - IEKAWE crosses for TARA to volley narrowly wide

74' - Mele NIUKAPU remains down near the Tongan penalty spot and leaves the field for treatment

74' - Tongan goalkeeper #1. Mele LIKILIKI is shown a yellow card for time-wasting following the delay for NIUKAPU's injury 

75' - #2. Mele NIUKAPU succumbs to the injury, replaced by #18. Maumea MAFI

77' - two Tongan players clash heads bearing down on the New Caledonia goal, one requiring treatment to the side of the field

79' - New Caledonia has a series of attempts on the Tongan goal, but none find the target

81' - Lola TARA releases a venomous strike on goal, which LIKILIKI needs to palm down, but regathers

85' - Tonga's #8. Neomai TUPOU is replaced by #15. Salote LAUTAHA

87' - GOAL!

#12. Penateti FEKE finds space on the left side of the penalty box, and rolls a left-footed finish across POUIDJA in the New Caledonian goal to score the winner for Tonga

87' - #11. Stephanie IAKEWE is replaced by #16. Antonia PALAOU for New Caledonia

90' - #9. Atelaite MANU receives a yellow card

-- 2 minutes added time --

90'+1 - LIKILIKI saves well from a curling HOUQUET strike

 

FULL TIME: TONGA 2 NEW CALEDONIA 0

 

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Women’s Group B

Match Day 3 – 1500 – 30 August 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

 

TONGA: 1. Mele LIKILIKI [gk][c]; 2. Mele NIUKAPU (18. Maumea MAFI 75'); 3. Kulia FILO; 4. Pesalini LAVE; 5. Sala VEAMATAHAU; 7. Salome VAENUKU; 8. Neomai TUPOU (15. Salote LAUTAHA 85'); 9. Atelaite MANU; 10. Heilala LOTOANIU; 11. Matelita MISINALE; 12. Penateti FEKE.

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 6. Olive MATEIALONA; 13. Makeleta FOLAUMOETAO; 14. Unise HAFOKA; 17. Lose PELE; 19. Uluaki KAUFUSI; 20. Elanoa LAUHINGOA [gk].

Injured: 16. Karen UTAATU.

Suspended:

Not available: 

 

Cautions: 4. Pesalini LAVE (69'); 1. Mele Likiliki (74'); 9. Atelaite MANU (90').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 10. Heilala LOTOAINU (47'); 12. Penateti FEKE (87').  

 

 

NEW CALEDONIA: 1. Honorine POUIDJA [gk]; 2. Delphine POINRI; 3. Marie WANAKAIJA; 5. Alice MATHIEU; 6. Floraine DIAINON [c] (14. Virginie HOUQUET 57'); 7. Marjorie POUYE (12. Glenda JAINE 64'); 8. Elodie TEIN-POAWI; 9. Marylise LOLO; 11. Stephanie IEKAWE (16. Antonia PALAOU 87'); 17. Lenka ROMONE; 18. Lola TARA.

Coach: Stephane DELANDE

Substitutes not used: 4. Fanny SEE; 10. Celine XOLAWAWA; 13. Genevieve DEOUWI; 15. Madeleine JAINE; 19. Audrey SINEM; 20. Lucie MOYATEA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended:

Not available: 

 

Cautions: 3. Marie WANAKAIJA (21'); 18. Lola TARA (22').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 

 

 

 

Referee: Finau VULIVULI (FIJ)

Assistant Referee: Brent BEST (NZL)

Assistant Referee: Jackson NAMO (SOL)

Fourth Official: Lencie FRED (VAN)

Fifth Official: Hilary ANI (PNG)

SAMOA 2 (Faaiuaso 45'+1, Taylor 83') TONGA 1 (Feao 53') 

Polynesian cousins Samoa and Tonga put on a show for the bumper crowd estimated at 2,500 at Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Playing Fields in Apia, Samoa in what has been widely described as the match of the tournament so far.

Such was the intensity from the kick-off that in the first minute of play Sione Ongoi Tuatahi collided with a team mate, and was hospitalised with a head injury. To their credit, Tonga did not allow the unfortunate incident to faze them – and set out to take the game to their higher-rated neighbours.

An epic midfield battle driven by the exploits of respective captains Chris Cahill and Tonga’s inspiration Unaloto Feao ensued, with heavy collisions and quick passing the order of the night.

Junior Michael was the preeminent figure of the first half, on several occasions displaying expert control of the thumping clearances provided by the colossal Pasi Schwalger in the Samoan goal – but unfortunately each time coming within a whisker of hitting the back of the net.

Led by some whole-hearted interventions from left back Kava Huihahau (pictured below in action against Desmond Faaiuaso), the Tongan defence scrambled well in numbers time and time again to clear the decks of the dangerous Michael and impressive Desmond Faaiuaso.

 

It was in first-half stoppage time however that the pulsating stalemate was dispelled, when Faaiuaso was first to pounce on a loose ball – the product of a series of nigh-on comical deflections following one of the night’s many Chris Cahill free kicks.

Again, refusing to be discouraged Tonga came back for the second half prepared to give as good as they got against the host nation, and were rewarded with an equaliser eight minutes into the second half.

A clever, yet seemingly innocuous Malakai Savieti flick was allowed to trial into the penalty box by the Samoan defense, catching the traditionally outbound Schwalger flat-footed on his line. Unaloto Feao quickly spotted the opportunity, and slotted past Schwalger into the net.

This cued a surreal, almost disbelieving silence from the expectant crowd gathered on the grassy banks of the Faleata Sports Complex – but only served to inspire Samoa to push forward in search of the winner.

As the pace of the game spiralled into its own compelling end to end tailspin, Chris Cahill – who forced himself to continue after aggravating a heel injury late in the first half – and Kamaliele Papani both picked up their second yellow cards of the tournament to date, meaning both will miss their team’s next fixture.

Several key interventions from fraught Tongan goalkeeper Kavakava Manumua seemed to have served in facilitating a memorable draw between the two island nations, until an inspired and audacious Lionel Taylor turn and shot in the 83^rd minute sent the crowd and his team mates alike into raptures.

 

Tonga had one final chance from a well-placed free kick, but could not manage to find the target through Sione Tovo. Cautious of not allowing another opportunity to the obviously deflated Tongans, Samoa managed to secure possession for extended periods in the final minutes of the game and hang on to the precious victory.

The Cahill suspension now poses a situation for Samoa, who will have to take on the mighty Solomon Islands minus their talismanic captain. They will enter the clash in the knowledge that a victory should see them qualify for a semi-final date with perhaps New Caledonia, but more likely Fiji.

Samoa have a few days of valuable rest and preparation to look forward to before taking on the Solomon Islands at 1230hrs (GMT-13) on Monday 3 September, while Tonga play their 3^rd match of the tournament on Saturday September 1^st at 1230 (GMT-13) against American Samoa with mathematical hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals still alive.

LIVE UPDATES:

0' - both teams enter the field to the FIFA Anthem, with a steady and colourful crowd building on a warm, and still evening  

0' - Tonga performs a rousing haka towards their bench, and those watching from the grandstand

1' - a collision on the edge of the Tongan area causes an injury to Sione Ongoi UHATAHI

6' - UHATAHI is taken to hospital as a precautionary measure to receive treatment for a head injury 

7' - Pasi SCHWALGER releases a towering punt downfield, which causes havoc in the Tongan defense and results in a narrowly missed attempt at goal by Junior MICHAEL

10' -  Tonga #2. Sione Ongoi UHATAHI is replaced by #14. Kaisani UHATAHI 

11' - CAHILL releases a curling volley at goal, clearing the crossbar by a matter of inches

14' - a spell of concerted pressure from Samoa is broken by a Tongan counter-attack, lacking execution on goal

15' - Kava HUIHAHAU fails to find the target  for Tonga from consecutive free kicks 35 yards out 

16' - Desmond FAAIUASO drives a low shot into the arms of Tongan 'keeper Kavakava MANUMUA

17' - Tonga level possesion, with play running to both ends of the field

18' - Junior MICHAEL releases a menacing cross-shot from the left side of the Tongan penalty area, which MANUMUA holds well at full stretch to his left

20' - Samoan goalkeeper Pasi SCHWALGER negotiates traffic to save well at the feet of Tongan attackers

21' - Tonga defend well to clear the latest Samoan attack

23' - Chris CAHILL releases a deep cross for FAAIUASO to volley from an angle, narrowly missing the top corner from the 18 yards

25' - Fauivi UGAPO puts in a strong challenge on Tonga's Pio PALU

26' - a Chris CAHILL free kick produces a low save from MANUMUA

27' - Malakai SAVIETI and captain Unaloto FEAO combine well for Tonga to call SCHWALGER into action

29' - FEAO drives a free kick from 35 yards straight into the Samoan wall, which holds firm

30' - CAHILL replicates this action from a wider angle for Samoa

30' - FEAO has a strike on the Samoan goal, but the ball trials wide left

32' - SCHWALGER leaves his line to claim a high cross from deep over the Tongan attackers

34' - an intense battle is developing across the midfield, with Tonga very aware of the threat CAHILL poses

36' - the Tongan defence clears well on consecutive attacks, to find FEAO who travels on a mazy dribble to be caught out on a loose touch

37' - Folio MOEAKI blasts a long-range shot over the Samoan goal

38' - a CAHILL free kick finds Damien FONOTI at the far post, who heads across goal but narrowly clears the crossbar

40' - Pio PALU volleys from the edge of the box to produce a theatrical save from SCHWALGER

42' - Tonga #7. Sione Vea TAHITUA brings down CAHILL near the halfway line, and receives a yellow card.

44' - Kamaliele PAPANI clears well for Tonga from a dangerous CAHILL free kick across the face of goal

-- 5 minutes added time --

45'+1 - GOAL!

a goalmouth scramble results in #10. Desmond FAAIUASO pouncing to break the deadlock for Samoa

45'+3 - MANUMUA is fouled by Samoan attackers, resulting in a goal to MICHAEL being disallowed  

45'+4 - MICHAEL shoots across the face of goal from wide on the left

45'+5 - Chris CAHILL leaves the field early with an injury to his right heel

 

HALF-TIME: SAM 1 TON 0

 

46' - Chris CAHILL returns from half-time, ready to play

49' - FAAIUASO cannons a shot at goal, which MANUMUA saves well diving to his left in mid-air

50' - the fixture is proving to be one of the tightest and most physical at the tournament so far

50' - the Samoan defense combines to clear a potentially dangerous cross from deep

51' - Fauivi UGAPO takes a knock and requires treatment in the Samoan penalty box

53' - GOAL!

#10. Unaloto FEAO capitalises on a SAVIETI flick not being cleared by the Samoan defense to draw Tonga level

56' - Kamaliele PAPANI releases SAVIETI down the right flank, only for play to break down in the frenetic conditions  

57' - yellow card for Junior MICHAEL of Samoa

58' - FAAIUASO corner is well held by MANUMUA under intense pressure from the Samoan runners

58' - MANUMUA is alert to defuse a dangerous loose ball at the top of his area

60' - Tonga scramble the ball clear for a corner, which causes pressure well managed by MANUMUA

63' - #4. Chris CAHILL recieves a yellow card, ruling him out of Samoa's clash with the Solomon Islands

66' - Tonga #8. Kamaliele PAPANI receives a yellow card, and will also miss Tonga's next match versus American Samoa

70' - Kava HUIHAHAU slides in well to concede a corner kick, from which a CAHILL near-post header produces an outstanding collapsing save from MANUMUA

72' - Samoa #13. Lionel TAYLOR and Tonga #14. Kaisani UHATAHI receive yellow cards for a skirmish in the penalty box following the corner

73' - the intensity of the match has increased another level, with tough challenges coming in from both sides

74' - Tonga defend well in numbers to extinguish several consecutive Samoan raids

75' - SCHWALGER punches well with a fist from a deep Tongan free kick

76' - FAAIUASO shows nice skill down the right flank, but fails to produce a cross

78' - SCHWALGER intervenes well after good interplay between PAPANI, HUIHAHAU and PALU for Tonga 

82' - Sakaria FUIMAONO rises above the Tongan defence to meet a pinpoint CAHILL free kick, grazing the right-hand upright of the Tongan goal

83' - GOAL!

outstanding pivot and strike from #13. Lionel TAYLOR sends the crowd of thousands into raptures

84' - Tonga come straight back at Samoa, with inspirational captain Unaloto FEAO narrowly missing a far-post header

85' - #4. Chris CAHILL heads for the bench to be replaced by #2. Voa SAUAGA

86' - Tongan #11. Malakai SAVETI is replaced by #12. Lafaele MOALA

88' - Sione TOVO blazes an indirect free kick high over the Samoan goal

-- 2 minutes added time --

 90'+2 - the referee's final whistle brings a roar of appreciation, tinged with relief from the predominantly local crowd

FULL-TIME: SAM 2 TON 1

 

MATCH PHOTOS (courtesy of Geoff Dickinson Photography)

 

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Men’s Group B

Match Day 3 – 2030 – 29 August 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa 

 

 

SAMOA: 1. Pasi SCHWALGER [gk]; 3. Damien FONOTI; 4. Chris CAHILL [c] (Voa SAUAGA 85'); 6. Fauivi UGAPO; 10. Desmond FAAIUASO; 11. Junior MICHAEL; 12. Filipo BURETA; 13. Lionel TAYLOR; 14. Bevan KAPISI; 16. Penitito TUMUA; 18. Sakaria FUIMAONO.

Coach: Falevi UMUTAUA

Substitutes not used: 5. Jerrell SALE; 7. Fereti GOSCHE; 8. Joseph HOEFLICH; 9. Max Tom HEIFLICH; 15. Edwin TYRELL; 17. Horst PETANA; 19. Sapati UMUTAUA; 20. Filipo ULI [gk]; 21. Keith Tasi STANFIELD.

Injured:

Suspended:

Not available:

 

Cautions: 11. Junior MICHAEL (57'); 4. Chris CAHILL (63'); 13. Lionel TAYLOR (72').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 10. Desmond FAAIUASO (45'+1); 13. Lionel TAYLOR (83').

 

 

TONGA: 1. Kavakava MANUMUA [gk]; 2. Sione Ongoi UHATAHI (14. Kaisani UHATAHI 10'); 3. Kava HUIHAHAU; 4. Folio MOEAKI; 6. Pio PALU; 7. Sione Vea TAHITUA; 8. Kamaliele PAPANI; 10. Unaloto FEAO [c]; 11. Malakai SAVIETI (12. Lafaele MOALA 86'); 16. Sione TOVO; 17. Semisi TUIFANGALOKA.

Coach: Kilife UELE

Substitutes not used: 5. Matana PAONGO; 15. Tevita TAKAI; 18. Kaliopasi UELE; 19. Lisaniasi KAINGA; Kaneti FELELA [gk].

Injured: 9. Ilalio LEAKONA; 13. Mark UHATAHI; 21. Kinikini KAU [gk].

Suspended:

Not available:

 

Cautions: 7. Sione Vea TAHITUA (42'); 8. Kamaliele PAPANI (66'); 14. Kaisane UHATAHI (72').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 10. Unaloto FEAO (53').

 

 

Referee: Salaiau SOSONGAN (PNG)

Assistant Referee: Rohitesh DAYAL (FIJ)

Assistant Referee: Hilary ANI (PNG)

Fourth Official: Job Ponis MINAN (PNG)

Fifth Official: Nick WALDRON (NZL)

Solomon Islands triumphed 4-0 over Tonga thanks to two-goal hero Commins Menapi. The veteran striker was in deadly form in front of goal despite the heroics of Tonga goalkeeper Kavakava Manumua who had a strong match. Another fine performer was Henry Fa’arodo, the dreadlocked wide midfielder at the centre of Solomon Islands devastating attacks. Fa’arodo added the third for Solomon Islands on 51 minutes. Another New Zealand-based midfield man Alick Maemae capped off a satisfying afternoon for his team with a neat shot inside the penalty area on 66 minutes.

Solomon Islands were never threatened at the back but were made to work hard as Kamaliele Papani showed some deft touches in an otherwise busy midfield. Papani, though, was no match for a dynamic midfield run by Alick Maemae and George Lui with the pair at the heart of all Solomon Islands creative moves.

Tonga rarely threated Fred Hale's goal with the back four of Samson Takayama, David Taro, George Suri and Marlon Houkarawa proving a more convincing combination than in Solomon Islands preparation matches. Tonga, for their part, showed impressive strength, work-rate and endeavour but rarely any creative moves that possessed a rapier thrust though coach Kilifi Uele was happy enough with the player's collective efforts.

Solomon Islands not sit on top of Pool B with a 100% record and their place in the semi-finals looks all but assured with matches against Vanuatu (Saturday 1st September, 1430hrs GMT-13) and Samoa (Monday 3rd September, 1230hrs GMT-13).

Tonga's next match against rivals Samoa (Wednesday 29th August, 2030hrs GMT-13)is now a must-win for both teams if they are to retain any realistic interest in a semi-final berth.

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES - SAMOA 2007

Men's

Group B

Match day 2 - 27 August 2007 - 15:00 

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Playing Fields - Apia - Samoa

Full-time: SOLOMON ISLANDS 4 (MENAPI 5', 13'; FAARODO 51'; MAEMAE 66') TONGA 0

 

SOLOMON ISLANDS: 1. Fred HALE; 2. David TARO; 3. Marlon Houkarawa; 4. Samson TAKAYAMA; 5. George SURI; 7. Aleck MAEMAE; 9. Godwin BEBEU (12. James NAKA 69'); 11. Commins MENAPI; 13. George LUI (10. Judd MOLEA 46'); 18. Henry FAARODO; 19. George ABA (16. Stanley WAITA 46').

Coach: Airton ANDRIOLI

Substitutes not used: 6. Tome FAISI; 8. Jacob PEKAU; 15. Mostyn BEUI; 17. Gideon OMOKIRIO; 20. Arnold KENI; 21. John MORGAN.

Injured:

Suspended:

Not Available: 14. Benjamin TOTORI. 

 

Cautions: 13. George LUI (34'); Marlon HOUKARAWA (87'). 

Red Cards:

Goalscorers: 11. Commins MENAPI (5', 13'); 18. Henry FAARODO (51'); Alick MAEMAE (66'). 

 

TONGA: 1. Kavakava MANUMUA; 2. Sione Ongol UHATAHI; 3. Kava HUIHAUHAU; 4. Folio MOEAKI; 6. Pio PALU; 7. Sione Vea TAHITUA; 8. Kamaliele PAPANI; 9. Ilalio LEAKONA (15. Tevita TAKAI 46'); 10. Unaloto FEAO; 11. Malakai SAVIETI (Lafaele MOALA 53'); 17. Semisi TUIFANGALOKA.

Coach: Kilife UELE

Substitutes not used: 5. Matana PAONGO; 14. Kaisani UHATAHI; 16. Sione TOVO; 18. Kaliopasi UELE; 19. Lisaniasi KAINGA; 20. Kaneti FELELA

Injured: 13. Mark UHATAHI; 21. Kinikini KAU.

Suspended:

Not Available:

 

Cautions: 10. Unaloto FEAO (30'); Kamaliele PAPANI (44'); 6. Pio PALU (62'); Tevita TAKAI (85').

Red Cards:

Goalscorers:

 

Referee: Fiti AIMAASU (SAM)

Assistant Referee: Michael JOSEPH (VAN)

Assistant Referee: Mahit CHILIA (VAN)

Fourth Official: Salaiau SOSONGAN (PNG)