The Digicel Fiji Junior Bula Boys faced a 3-nil defeat against the Solomon Islands in their second group match of the OFC Under 19 Men’s Championship held in Apia.
The stakes were high for both teams, as a victory would guarantee a spot in the semi-finals.
Early on, James Laena of the Solomon Islands had a chance to score but missed, sending the ball over the crossbar. Minutes later, Jayroll Patty’s shot was deflected, forcing a save from Fiji’s goalkeeper Illisoni Koro. Laena again missed an opportunity from the rebound.
The match saw end-to-end action, with Laena continuing to test the Fijian defense but failing to score. Fiji’s first shot on target came in the 21st minute when captain Penisoni Tirau’s attempt was stopped by Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Gideon Abidan.
The Solomon Islands took the lead close to half-time with a free kick by Billy Afi that found the bottom corner of the net. They doubled their advantage before the break, with Jimson Abana heading a cross past Koro into the goal.
The humid conditions in the second half slowed the game down, allowing Fiji to create more chances. Substitute Eparama Moraica impressed after coming on, setting up Fiji’s best chance of the match, which was ultimately missed.
The Solomon Islands sealed their victory in the 83rd minute with Abana scoring a spectacular scissor kick.
The Solomon Islands will next face Tahiti on Thursday, while Fiji will look to bounce back in their final group match against Vanuatu.