As the second match of the 2024 Tri-Nations Friendly series takes place today, coach Josh Smith of the Solomon Islands stressed the team’s dedication to their distinct style of play in their matchup against Hong Kong.
“We’re starting to shape the team the way we want to play. We will focus on the things that we want to work on and the things we want to see,” Smith stated.
This statement follows a close 1-0 defeat to Fiji, a match that was ultimately decided by a penalty kick, which offered the coaching staff crucial information regarding the team’s current performance level.
Smith acknowledged the players’ efforts during the game while pinpointing specific areas for growth. “It was a great opportunity to see the boys in action. I liked the spirit of the game and the intensity was high. We need to work on a couple of things, defensively, how we press and how we get behind the ball,” he remarked.
With a positive perspective ahead of the game against Hong Kong, Smith considers it an important chance for his team’s development. “We will see how it goes with the Hong Kong team, and it will be a learning experience for the team,” he noted.
The Solomon Islands will face Hong Kong today at 7 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.