As the second match of the 2024 Tri-Nations Friendly series takes place today, Solomon Islands’ coach, Josh Smith, underscored the team’s dedication to their distinctive style of play against Hong Kong.
“We’re beginning to mold the team into the style we want to implement. Our focus will be on the aspects we wish to enhance and the outcomes we want to achieve,” Smith stated.
This match follows a close 1-0 defeat against Fiji, which was determined by a penalty and offered critical insights into the team’s form.
Smith acknowledged the players’ efforts while pinpointing areas that need enhancement. “It was a fantastic chance to see the boys compete. I appreciated the game’s spirit and the high intensity. We must improve on a few defensive strategies, particularly in how we apply pressure and recover behind the ball,” he remarked.
Looking ahead to the game against Hong Kong, Smith sees it as a pivotal opportunity for growth. “We will assess our performance against the Hong Kong team, and it will serve as a valuable learning experience for us,” he stated.
Solomon Islands is set to face Hong Kong today at 7 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.