The FIFA International “A” Friendlies Tri-Nations Series match against the Solomon Islands proved to be exactly what the Digicel Fiji Bula Boys needed. The opponent’s intensity prompted the Fijians to give their all and perform well under the lights at the HFC Bank Stadium on Monday night.
Tevita Waranaivalu’s penalty goal in the 81st minute secured a 1-0 victory over the Solomon Islands in the chilly and windy conditions of Laucala Bay.
Head coach Rob Sherman praised his team’s efforts but noted that there is room for improvement. He remarked, “It was a very close game, good tough opposition which in all honesty is what we need. It was a good performance under difficult conditions. We didn’t play as fully as we wanted to but nevertheless the boys showed some good character. We were looking at a win, we did execute, made some adjustments before the game.”
This encounter served as a preview of what the Fijians can anticipate from the Solomon Islanders when they meet again next month in the World Cup qualifiers.
Following this match, the team returned to the Fiji Football Academy in Ba for preparations for their upcoming game against Hong Kong-China, scheduled for Sunday at 3 PM at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands will be facing Hong Kong-China on Thursday at 7 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.