The Fiji women’s hockey team delivered an impressive performance in their first match of the Oceania Pacific Cup, defeating Samoa with a score of 9-1 at the National Hockey Centre in Suva. Head coach Alison Southey expressed her satisfaction with the team’s display, which featured several experienced players from previous international competitions, including the Pacific Games and the World Cup in Oman. Among these veterans are Catherine Fabiano, Divyankar Kumar, Melba Nautu, and Maxine Edwards.
Southey highlighted the importance of starting the tournament on a high note, stating, “It’s always good going into a tournament winning.” With optimism in the air, she emphasized the team’s approach of taking one game at a time and applying their training lessons on the field. She noted, “We stuck to the game plan. The girls have been training really hard over the past few months.”
As the tournament progresses, Southey is enthusiastic about showcasing the skills of both seasoned athletes and emerging players. The Fiji women’s and men’s teams have fielded two squads each, named Fiji and Fiji Warriors, providing valuable exposure for local talent. She mentioned a focus on improving defensive strategies, with the team’s performance set to evolve as they continue competing.
The Fiji women’s team faced Tonga in their second match later in the day, with a total of seven countries and 16 teams participating in the ongoing competition, which will conclude on Thursday.
This strong start by the Fiji women’s hockey team not only boosts morale but also sets a positive tone for the remainder of the tournament, demonstrating their potential and determination to succeed on this international stage.
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