GROUPS TAKE SHAPE AS GOALS RAIN IN
Friday, 31 August 07, 22:20 PM
Tonga and Tahiti were the winners on Women’s Match Day 3 at the XIII South Pacific Games – Samoa 2007 in a day that saw one upset result and a contender for goal of the tournament.
In Group A, Fiji accounted for a spirited American Samoa 3-0 thanks to two second half goals from Unaisi Moce and a an opener from Adiela Kurikaba. Fiji was made to work hard for their victory as American Samoa adopted a highly defensive approach based around the courage and skill of goalkeeper Filiga Kerisiani. Fiji’s win sent Farouk Janeman’s team into second spot in the group on goal difference from high-flying Papua New Guinea.
Elsewhere in Group A, Cook Islands striker Teremoana Hewett looked to have put her team’s campaign back on track after she fired home a brilliant right foot volley from an acute angle after 42 minutes against Solomon Islands.
With both teams semi-final hopes depending upon victory Hewett had looked to have handed her country the impetus until a defensive error reminiscent of Cook Islands match against American Samoa handed Solomon Islands a lifeline.
A seemingly harmless pass into Cook Islands defence took the faintest of touches off Solomon Islands Layda Samani on 50 minutes leaving goalkeeper Heimata Heather stranded helpless as the ball trundled into the empty net to give a 1-1 score line.
In Group B, Tonga got off to a solid start when Heilala Lotoaniu latched onto a long ball and left the New Caledonia defence flatfooted before slotting into an empty net. New Caledonia were not without their chances as Marylise Lolo and Lola Tara went close. The result was put beyond doubt when Penateti Feke scored with just 3 minutes remaining to hand Tonga a 2-0 win.
Tahiti caused the biggest shock of the tournament when they dismantled host nation Samoa 4-0 in an exciting match before another big evening crowd. Tahiti were too slick for the host nation in a minor upset at JS Blatter Playing Field in Apia, Samoa, tonight as the debutants from French-Polynesia raced into the lead for a semi-finals berth.
Samoa had all the pre-match pundits picking a comfortable home victory but Tahiti turned in a performance replete with passion, vigour, energy and no little amount of skill. Gloria HAUATA (31’), Tania BONNEFIN (47’) and Maima MARMOUYET (88’) were in red hot form in front of goal while Samoa didn’t help their own cause when they scored an own goal after 34 minutes.
The next fixtures in the XIII South Pacific Games – Samoa 2007 Women’s Football Tournament take place on Saturday 1st September with a four fixtures.
SATURDAY 1st SEPTEMBER 2007
(GMT-13)
Kick-off Match Group
1000hrs Solomon Islands v American Samoa A
1000hrs Tahiti v Tonga B
1500hrs Papua New Guinea v Fiji A
2030hrs New Caledonia v Samoa B
PHOTOS from MATCH DAY 3 ACTION:
MORE DETAILS OF XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES CAN BE READ AT:
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TAHITI ANNOUNCE ARRIVAL WITH FOUR GOAL HAUL
Friday, 31 August 07, 18:54 PM
TAHITI 4 (HAUATA 31', own goal 34', BONNEFIN 47, Maima MARMOUYET 88') SAMOA 0
Tahiti caused the biggest shock of the tournament when they dismantled host nation Samoa 4-0 in an exciting match before another big evening crowd. Tahiti were too slick for the host nation in a minor upset at J.S. Blatter Playing Fields in Apia, Samoa, tonight as the debutants from French-Polynesia raced into the lead for a semi-finals berth.
Samoa had all the pre-match pundits picking a comfortable home victory but Tahiti turned in a performance replete with passion, vigour, energy and no little amount of skill. Gloria Hauata, Tania Bonnefin and Maima Marmouyet were in red hot form in front of goal while Samoa didn’t help their own cause when they scored an own goal after 34 minutes.
Little was known about the strength of Tahitian women's football prior to the XIII South Pacific Games - Samoa 2007, but Tahiti will be the name on everyone's lips after this impassioned performance. Samoa had earlier looked good in training but that counted for little as Tahiti showed a greater cut and thrust in front of goal whilst Samoa could not penetrate Tahiti's lightening quick defensive pairing of Angela Tairui and Maruina Tom Sing Vien.
Florence Lam Sam and Clare Meni were in good form for Samoa but Tahiti's all-round pace proved far too sharp and clinical on a night that Tahitian football at last had something to celebrate at the South Pacific Games.
LIVE UPDATES:
1' - the match is underway beneath spectacular sheet lightning over the mountains to west
2' - both teams have been caught offside early on, keen to take the ascendency
2' - Rosei LEOTA is brilliant denied by Tahitian 'keeper Poroni TURANA, who dives bravely at her feet
4' - Rosa MALAMA saves Rosei LEOTA's shot from point-blank range with style
8' - Natalie DAVIES scythes a free kick flat across the Tahitian penalty area, but none of the on-rushing attackers can connect
11' - TURANA acts quickly to defuse a dangerous skidding through-ball from the Samoan midfield
12' - a Florence LAM SAM shot takes a deflection and requires TURANA to beat Tamasailau LEUTA to the loose ball
12' - a Leti TAMASESE free kick causes trouble in the Tahitian defence, but they escape with a goal kick
14' - TAMASESE puts in a solid challenge against Tahiti's Gloria HAUATA in the Samoan 18 yard box
15' - Samoa break quickly down the right, but fail to connect with LAM SAM's cross
17' - LAM SAM and Rosei LEOTA are causing havoc in the TAHITIAN defense with clever diagonal runs, with Tahitian centre back Patricia YAKEULA coming to the rescue on several occasions already
20' - Semeatu LEMANA heads a curling Laverna TARIHAA free kick away from danger and sets Samoa on a counter attack which is then lost die to the slippery conditions
21' - Gloria HAUATA is tackled heavily by LEMANA, but manages to stay on the pitch
22' - Mimosa MARMOUYET bends an ominous free kick over the wall for an unsighted SOLOMONA to fumble, but recollect
23' - Samoa puts Tahiti under pressure from the counter attack, but play breaks down for a goal kick after a series of throw-ins
25' - SOLOMONA has hurt her hand in the TARIHAA save, and requires treatment
28' - as play recommences, YAKEULA is outstanding in putting a stop to another LAM SAM break
29' - Samoa force a corner, from which YAKEULA brilliantly blocks LEOTA's attempt to put away the bouncing ball
30' - Henifa BRYCE scrambles a corner, which is cleared by BRYCE again with the head, for MARMOUYET to loft back into the box
31' - GOAL!
#10. Gloria Hauata fires home a cross from the left to stun the home crowd
34' - OWN GOAL!
a MARMOUYET cross is unfortunately deflected by BRYCE into her own net, further quieting the steadily building crowd
37' - LEUTA breaks down the right, but can not cut to provide a cross
38' - Leti TAMASESE has a strike on goal for Samoa, but misses to the left
40' - Natalie DAVIES turns well to cross for Samoa, but Josaine TAURAA is composed in her clearance
42' - a MARMOUYET free kick causes trouble in the Samoan penalty box, but SOLOMONA is fouled which results in a free kick
43' - LEOTA requires attention for an injury, causing another stoppage in play
-- 3 minutes added time --
45'+2 - Maruina TOM SING VEIN releases a piledriver from half way, which SOLOMONA can only parry for a corner
45'+2 - GOAL!
#7. Mimosa MARMOUYET pounces on a bouncing ball from the corner, to put Tahiti clear ahead at half time
HALF TIME: TAHITI 3 SAMOA 0
46' - Samoa have emerged from half time looking to keep the ball a lot more, which sees them dominate possession so far
49' - #11. Rosei LEOTA succumbs to injury, replaced by #12. June TUPOU
50' - TUPOU makes an immediate impact, travelling across the face of goal and releasing a skidding left foot drive, which produces an efficient smothering save from Poroni TURANA in the Tahitian goal
52' - Samoa have Tahiti under pressure in the early stages of the second half
57' - Jeanne MAHIATAPU makes a run down the left side, cuts to cross for Mimosa MARMOUYET, but the Samoan defense blocks her shot
58' - HAUATA is through on goal with a bouncing ball, where SOLOMONA is out well to fist away
60' - an inspired MARMOUYET back-heel results in an angled drive from MAHIATAPU hitting the stanchion
61' - Henifa BRYCE is down injured, causing the game's latest stoppage
65' - Leti TAMASESE intervenes well to prevent a TOM SING VEIN foray at goal
69' - MARMOUYET puts Angela TAIRUI through down the right, but her cross is blocked by TAMASESE
73' - #12. Maima MARMOUYET enters the game for #11. Jeanne MAHIATAPU
77' - Mimosa MARMOUYET goes down injured, and leaves the field for further treatment
79' - Tahiti replace the injured player #7. Mimosa MARMOUYET with #13. Felicite KAIHA
80' - a Anarosa SIMONE free kick extends TURANA skywards, but she holds the ball to settle play for Tahiti
87' - Samoa look to have conceded defeat, as Tahiti settle in their shape to retain possesion
88' - #6. Angelina THUNOT makes way for #16. Juliana MAETA
88' - GOAL!
Tania BONNEFIN's curling free kick is pushed away by SOLOMONA, but with no cover defence substitute #12. Maima MARMOUYET is delighted to tap the ball home
-- 5 minutes added time --
90+1 - HAUATA climbs spectacularly to connect a header with TAIRUI's cross, but SOLOMONA saves and holds well
90'+5 - a final Samoan push for goal is snuffed out by an alert TURANA
FULL TIME: TAHITI 4 SAMOA 0
MATCH PHOTOS:
XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007
Women’s Group B
Match Day 3 – 2030 – 30 August 2007
Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa
TAHITI: 1. Poroni TURANA; 2. Patricia YAKEULA; 3. Josaine TAURAA; 4. Maruina TOM SING VIEN; 5. Angela TAIRUI; 6. Angelina THUNOT (16. Juliana MAETA 88'); 7. Mimosa MARMOUYET (13. Felicite KAIHA 79'); 8. Lavema TARIHAA; 9. Tania BONNEFIN; 10. Gloria HAUATA; 11. Jeanne MAHIATAPU (12. Maima MARMOUYET 73').
Coach: Ralph APURII
Substitutes not used: 14. Sandrine TEAUNA; 15. Gwendoline TEPEA; 17. Monique TOKORAGI; 18. Nathalie TOPA; 20. Wilhermine MAIRAU.
Injured: None.
Suspended: None.
Not available: None.
Cautions:
Red cards:
Goal scorers: 10. Gloria HAUATA (31'); 9. Tania BONNEFIN (47'); 12. Maima MARMOUYET (88').
SAMOA: 1. Rosa Malama SOLOMONA; 3. Henifa BRYCE; 4. Clare MENI; 5. Leti TAMASESE; 6. Anarosa SIMONE; 7. Semeatu LEMANA; 9. Natalie DAVIES; 10. Florence LAM SAM; 11. Rosei LEOTA (12. June TUPOU 49'); 13. Tamasailau LEUTA; 14. Vaitofigalumepa TIPERIA.
Coach: Junior SAAGA
Substitutes not used: 3. Helena THOMPSON; 15. Rasela PEILUA; 17. Havira TAYLOR; 18. Saini UMUTAUA; 19. Sinaro PIO; 20. Rosina IAKOPO; 21. Tufi VAIGALU.
Injured: 8. Suitupe TAFAFA; 16. Marylynn WILLIAMS.
Suspended:
Not available:
Cautions:
Red cards:
Goal scorers:
Referee: Nelson SOGO (SOL)
Assistant Referee: Nick WALDRON (NZL)
Assistant Referee: Teariki GOODWIN (COK)
Fourth Official: Salaiau SOSONGAN (PNG)
Fifth Official: Rohitesh DAYAL (FIJ)
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COOK ISLANDS, SOLOMON ISLANDS FIGHT OUT 1-1 DRAW
Friday, 31 August 07, 16:28 PM
COOK ISLANDS 1 (HEWETT 42') SOLOMON ISLANDS 1 (SAMANI 50')
Solomon Island goalkeeper Betty Sade could be forgiven for looking as if she had just had a brush with the supernatural after Cook Islands striker Teremoana Hewett scored a contender for goal of the tournament tonight in Apia.
Both teams knew that anything less than a win would compromise their semi-final hopes and it was the Cook Islands who drew first blood when Isabel Urirau clipped a 30 yard pass to the far post where Hewett was poised to unleash a right foot volley high into the Solomon Islands net on 42' minutes.
The goal was nothing less than Cook Islands deserved after carving out several opportunties that Betty Sade was called upon to deal with to keep Solomon Islands in the match. The value of Sade's performance was emphasised further when an awkward high ball held up outside the area leaving Cook Islands goalkeeper Heimata Heather stranded nowhere, as Layda Samani got the faintest of touches that saw the ball roll towards the empty net.
Cook Islands defender Linda Matangaro gave hot pursuit but failed to hook the ball clear sending Solomon Islands players and dugout into a frenzy of delight. Cook Islands tried as hard as they could to retrieve the situation with Mustonen and Hewett going close with long range shots but Betty Sade gave as good as she got and was not to be beaten as the match meandered out to a 1-1 draw.
LIVE UPDATES:
3' - the match is underway beneath cloudy skies in Apia, with Solomon Islands under pressure from the Cooks
6' - corner to Cook Islands, which is cleared well by the Solomon Islands defence
9' - Regina MUSTONEN knocks a pinpoint switching delivery to Teremoana HEWITT on the right wing, who only narrowly misses her shot across the face of goal
10' - Cook Islands goalkeeper Heimata HEATHER is called into action for the first time, venturing outside her area to clear a Solomon Islands through-ball
13' - yellow card to Solomon Islands #15. Crystal ANNIE, who cynically and obviously uses her hand to control the ball when contesting possesion from a through-ball into the Cook Islands 18 yard box
14' - HEWITT sets off on a mazy dribble, only for her shot to be deflected away and cleared
16' - Teariivahine HENRY's powerful attempt at goal is deflected for a corner, which is quickly taken for MUSTONEN to exchange short passes with HENRY, and release a swooping drive just wide of the top corner
23' - HEATHER saves well on consecutive occasions pinned on her line, to concede a corner from which Cook Islands regain possession
25' - Reremoana SHERIDAN looks to be the Cooks Islands' best avenue to goal, but is being starved of possession at present
29' - pacey Cook Islands striker Isabel URIRAU deceives Betty SADE in the Solomon Islands goal to create a tight one-on-one opportunity
31' - Prudence FULA crosses for Layda SAMANI, but the Solomon Islands striker shoots over from 15 yards
31' - a high Tekura KAIKURA cross causes problems for SADE, who double-handles and needs to dive to recover the loose ball
36' - a low, curling Mii PIRI free kick is dealt with unconventionally by SADE, but she still manages to secure the ball on her second attempt
38' - Brenda MASAE collapses on a HENRY shot from distance to eliminate any chance of a loose ball
42' - GOAL!
URIRAU provides a perfect cross for #17. Teremoana HEWETT to volley home with authority at the far post
HALF TIME: COOK ISLANDS 1 SOLOMON ISLANDS 0
46' - Prudence FULA is striaght on attack for the Solomon Islands, but Linda MATANGARO takes her strike to the body to force a corner
46' - #17. Prudence FULA is booked for diving on the edge of the Cook Islands area
47' - Cook Islands goalkeeper HEATHER uses her leg to deflect a deep cross for a corner
50' - GOAL!
an awkward high ball holds up outside the area to leave HEATHER stranded, and MATANGARO can not hook the ball before it nestles in the net, the last touch coming off Solomon Islands #11. Layda SAMANI
52' - #11. Layda SAMANI then picks up a yellow for a tough challenge on Tupou PATIA
59' - PIRI is caught awkwardly while contesting the ball in a crowded midfield, and leaves the field for attention on her injured knee
61' - Solomon Islands definitely have the run of play with Cook Islands still a player down
62' - PIRI re-enters the field, to an immediate response from her rejuvinated team mates
66' - #7. Mii PIRI succumbs to her injury, and is replaced by #11. Melanie RAKEI
68' - Solomon Islands have three corners in quick succession, with Cook Islands taking no chances in clearing each
71' - MUSTONEN releases a dipping and swerving strike on goal from a free kick 40 yards out, but SADE takes the precaution of holding the fractionally wide attempt
72' - #9. Isabel URIRAU makes way for #5. Edwina TUTU
74' - Cook Islands' goalscorer #17. Teremoana HEWITT is replaced by #12. Elizabeth HARMON
75' - MUSTONEN turns sharply on the left side of the field to shoot for the far corner, but SADE rises to claim and hold the ball
76' - Tupou PATIA wins the ball in a firm challenge on Mary BOE, beats two players but releases a through ball down the sideline with no runners alert
82' - Crystal ANNIE and Layda SAMANI combine well to cause the Cook Islands' left-sided defence to scramble
83' - Solomon Islands #7. Mary BOE is replaced by #14. Janet ALUFURAI
83' - HEATHER ventures to the top of her area well to claim a speculative high ball from deep
84' - FULA is through on goal for the Solomon Islands, but can not get into a position to shoot before the danger is cleared
85' - PATIA picks up a knock and is attended to by the Cook Islands medical staff
87' - #17. Prudence FULA is substituted for #4. Margaret BELO
-- 5 minutes added time --
90'+3 - Cook Islands look to be happy with the draw, clearing the ball from their own half at every opportunity
90'+5 - Solomon Islands push to the finish, but can not break the deadlock
FULL TIME: COOK ISLANDS 1 SOLOMON ISLANDS 1
MATCH PHOTOS:
XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007
Women’s Group A
Match Day 3 – 1800 – 30 August 2007
Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa
COOK ISLANDS: 1. Heimata HEATHER [gk]; 2. Linda MATANGARO; 4.Helen PATIA; 7. Mii PIRI (11. Melanie RAKEI 66'); 8. Edwina MATENGA; 9. Isabel URIRAU (5. Edwina TUTU 72'); 10. Regina MUSTONEN; 13. Tekura KAUKURA; 14. Tupou PATIA; 17. Teremoana HEWETT (12. Elizabeth HARMON 74').
Coach: Tim JERKS
Substitutes not used: 3. Opokotea MANUELA; 15. Ana TUAKEU; 16. Vaine NAPA; 20. Mareta ANGENE [gk].
Injured: None.
Suspended: None.
Not available: None.
Cautions:
Red cards:
Goal scorers: 17. Teremoana HEWETT (74').
SOLOMON ISLANDS: 1. Betty SADE; 2. Audrey JACK; 3. Brenda MASAE; 5. Elise RINGI; 6. Margaret DAUDAU; 7. Mary BOE (14. Janet ALUFURAI 83'); 8. Betty MANUU; 9. Diane JUSTUS; 11. Layda SAMANI; 15. Crystal ANNIE; 17. Prudence FULA (4. Margaret BELO 87').
Coach: Timothy INFIRI
Substitutes not used: 12. Belinda SUSANA; 13. Samantha MAELAUA; 16. Hellen SIKWAAE; 20. Annie GELI [gk].
Injured:
Suspended:
Not available:
Cautions: 15. Crystal ANNIE (13'); 17. Prudence FULA (46'); 11. Layda SAMANI (52').
Red cards:
Goal scorers: 11. Layda SAMANI (50').
Referee: Neil FOX (NZL)
Assistant Referee: Tevita MAKASINI (TON)
Assistant Referee: Collin AUVELE (SAM)
Fourth Official: Michael HESTER (NZL)
Fifth Official: Raimana TAUOTAHA (TAH)
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CLASSY FIJI FIND WAY PAST KERISIANO
Friday, 31 August 07, 13:46 PM
AMERICAN SAMOA 0 FIJI 3 (KURIKABA 45+3, MOCE 53, 72)
Fiji continued their winning ways at the XIII South Pacific Games - Samoa 2007 today with a comfortable 3-0 win over a stout American Samoa at the J.S. Blatter Playing Fields in Apia, Samoa. Fiji - widely tipped to finish amongst the medallists in the women's football tournament - dominated the entire first half with Asena Reba Ratu turning in a commanding performance in the middle of the park for Fiji.
American Samoa spent most of the match pinned inside their own half between their 18 yard box and the halfway line rarely threatening to break forward as Fiji exerted total control of the ball. However, possession sometimes doesn't equate to goals and it was clear midway through the first half that Fijian nerves were jangling somewhat as the indomitable American Samoa goalkeeper Filiga Kerisiano made a string of brilliant saves that kept her team in the match.
Kerisiano's talent was helped by a decent share of good fortune and miserable finishing by Fiji who created a dozen or so good chances throughout a first half in which it sometimes looked harder to miss than to score.
The seriousness of the situation was shown on 13 minutes when American Samoa managed a rare excursion into Fijian territory as Jasmine Makiasi sprinted clear of her marker only for Fiji keeper Ana Maria Karikari to race off her line and deny her opponent what was the best chance of the match.
Fiji coach Farouk Janeman responded by sending his substitutes to warm up and made a change when he wtihdrew Vika Sadrau for Radilaite Marama. Just three minutes later American Samoa had the ball in the back of Fiji's net only for the goal to be chalked off for offside.
With Kerisiano looking unbeatable it took a goal in time added on in the first-half to take the pressure off the Fiji camp. A Ratu freekick found Adiele Kurakaba unmarked in the six yard box who powered an unstoppable header past the American Samoa keeper to make it 1-0.
With Fiji nerves settled the fear was American Samoa may wilt in the heat of the humid Samoan day and it took an uncharacteristic mistake from Filiga Kerisiano to convince Fiji the match had turned for them beyond American Samoa's capabilities of hauling back the deficit.
Uniasi Moce's shot from distance somehow squirmed out of Kerisiano's normally vice-like grip and fell into the back of the net to make it 2-0. Moce grabbed her second goal after 72 minutes to make it 3-0 and the game was up for American Samoa as Fiji clambered into second place in Group A just behind high-flying Papua New Guinea.
American Samoa coach Tunoa Lui declared himself content with the performance and paid tribute to the heroics of Filiga Kerisiano.
"Filiga played injured today, she hurt herself at training yesterday, so to see her play as well as she did was great. She has had a great tournament for her country and I hope she will be fit for our final match," Lui said.
Fiji by contrast will be pleased with the performance and result but may be concerned that they didn't find an easy way through American Samoa's defences.
LIVE UPDATES:
0' - The two teams have just shaken hands as the team line-ups are read out by the MC on a very hot and humid day at JS Blatter Playing Field in Apia, Samoa
1' - Referee Fiti AIMAASU gets us underway as Fiji in their traditional black and white kit against American Samoa sporting their navy blue and red.
3'- American Samoa freekick fired up field gives the team from Pago a sniff of goal but Fiji goalkeeper KARIKARI quickly stops the danger.
3'- Fiji's Dijilia DUGUCANAVANUA takes a corner but its headed just wide!
4'- American Samoa goalkeeper Filiga KERISIANO saves a Fiji shot and its a corner
5'- The corner is put into the penalty area and Radailite MARAMA shoots but KERISIANO saves again!
6'- Fiji freekick 22m out from goal. Fiji skipper Asena Reba RATU shoots and Filiga KERISIANO saves
7'- Asena Reba RATU shoots and Filiga KERISIANO palms the ball away and the danger is cleared. KERISIANO is making an inspirational start to the match yet again...and American Samoa will need her brilliance again today
9'- Fiji have another corner and Asena Reba RATU swings in a dangerous ball that Filiga KERISIANO has to save
11'- American Samoa venture out of their own territory for the first time in this match but are soon back on the defence
12'- Fiji shoot byVika SANDRAU but KERISIANO saves
12'- A corner comes in for Fiji and SANDRAU heads over with KERISIANO stranded
13'- Its a break away and American Samoa could score...KARIKARI comes rushing out of goal and collides with the American Samoa striker and its a corner - best chance of the game for either team so far
18'- And its a misty rain that descends on JS Blatter Playing Field with the scores still locked at 0-0 as Fiji dominate the territory and American Samoa hang on
21'- Fiji's Unaisi MOCE wins a header from American Samoa's Angela SAO and the ball breaks clear
22'- Fiji skipper Asena Reba RATU is in the thick of the action again striking a long range effort that Filiga KERISIANO saves easily
23'- Fiji coach Farouk JANEMAN is clearly not happy with his team and his substitutes have been sent to warm up
25'- Still no breakthrough for Fiji despite their domination in almost every aspect of play except in goal. Unaisi MOCE lets fly with a 30m rasping drive which Filiga KERISIANO saves
26' Free kick to Fiji which RATU fires in and forces yet another wonderful save from Filiga KERISIANO
27'- Fiji make space down the flank and Vulolo Anaisi TORA whips in a wonderful cross but SADRAU heads wide
28'- RATU whips in a dangerous corner but Sera TALANAVULA's header smacks the face of the crossbar and American Samoa survive yet again
30'- Fiji dominate through Asena Reba RATU in midfield but no breakthrough yet
36'- Substitution
#3. Vika SADRAU is replaced by #8. Radalaite MARAMA
39'- American Samoa have the ball in the back of the net from a freekick by Tofaagaolii OLOALUGA as Regina WRIGHT attempts a bicycle kick...but the effort is ruled out for offside
44'- American Samoa long ball is headed on by Jasmine MAKIASI for Angelo SAO to run onto but it comes to nothing.
-- 4 minutes added time --
45+3'- GOAL!
Fiji score after RATU's freekick from out wide finds #6 Adiela KURIKABA alone in the six yard box and she powers a header past Filiga KERISIANO
HALF-TIME: ASA 0 FIJ 1
46'- The second half gets underway with both sides unchanged.
47'- Fiji Radilaite MARAMA swings in a corner and the ball is cleared
48'- #3 Regina WRIGHT leaves the field of play to be replaced by #6 Lita TAOTOTO for American Samoa
52'- Fiji corner from Radilaite MARAMA is nearly put into the net by an American Samoa defender
55'- A cross from the right is cleared by American Samoa and a Fiji striker is denied when Filiga KERISIANO bravely dives into harms way to make the save. Referee AIMAASU awards a free kick for American Samoa
55'- GOAL!
#17 Unaisi MOCE gathers the clearance and fires a long range shot straight at KERISIANO...and its an uncharacteristic mistake by the keeper as the ball ends up in the back of the net!
57'- A long range shot this time by Fiji's Sera TALANAVULA whistles goalwards - and this time KERISIANO grabs the ball with both hands, a good comeback by the American Samoa goalkeeper
60'- A curling cross from the left is headed clear by American Samoa defender Momi ENE
61'- Fiji are in control of the match now they have the 2-0 lead but American Samoa can be proud of another plucky performance against one of the tournament favourites.
62'- A long range shot by Unaisi MOCE flies well wide of the American Samoa goal
63'- The weather conditions in Apia today are sweltering with the players clearly affected by the hot late afternoon sun
65'- American Samoa have a good spell in possession of the ball and Fiji have dropped their pace a little. Fiji will have to be careful if they do not take American Samoa too lightly in this hot afternoon sun
71'- Fiji Adiela KURIKABA shoots and KERISIANO saves and Asena Reba RATU follows up but KERISIANO saves again
72'- GOAL!
#17 Unaisi MOCE fires a shot past KERISIANO and into the net and its now 3-0 to Fiji
74'- #6 Adiela KURIKABA is replaced by #18 Naomi REGU for Fiji
74'- #8 Lelamay KERISIANO is replaced by #16 Margaret MORRIS for American Samoa
77'- American Samoa and Fiji appear drained from the sheer effort of playing in such heat
87'- #13 Unaisi VATULILI's afternoon is over and she is replaced by #11 Kinisimere VANUA for Fiji
87'- #6 Lita TAOTOTO is replaced by #12 Beulah ONEY for American Samoa
89'- The match has ended as a spectacle with both teams content to see out the remainder of the match
-- 2 minutes added time --
90'+2- The referee blows his whistle for fulltime and its Fiji who emerge victorious as American Samoa leave with a respectable defeat
FULL-TIME: ASA 0 FIJ 3
XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007
Women’s Group A
Match Day 3 – 1500 – 30 August 2007
Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa
AMERICAN SAMOA: 1. Filiga KERISIANO[gk]; 2. Maria SEFO; 3. Regina WRIGHT (6. Lita TAOTOTO 48' (12. Beulah ONEY 87')); 4. Tofaagaolii OLOALUGA; 5. Fetu LAKISA; 7. Angela SAO; 8. Lelamay KERISIANO (16. Nellie TAUMANUPEPE 75'); 9. Meleane KERISIANO; 11.Sandra HERRERA; 13. Momi ENE; 15. Jasmine MAKIASI.
Coach: Tunoa LUI
Substitutes not used: 10. Ivette HERRERA; 14. Ora BROWN; 18. Jermaima Fuatino KALEOPA; 19. Titula NAUER; 24. Marleen SILIGI [gk].
Injured: None.
Suspended: None.
Not available: None.
Cautions:
Red cards:
Goal scorers:
FIJI: 20. Ana Maria KARIKARI [gk]; 2. Mereoni YABAKIDRAU; 3. Vika SADRAU (8. Radilaite MARAMA 36'); 4. Alisi MEREDANI; 5. Sera TALANAVULA; 6. Adiela KURIKABA (18. Naomi REGU 74'); 7. Vulolo Anaisi TORA; 10. Asena Reba RATU; 12. Lynette PEARCE; 13. Unaisi VATULILI (11. Kinisimere VANUA 87'); 15. Jijilia DUGUCANAVANUA; 17. Unaisi MOCE.
Coach: Farouk JANEMAN
Substitutes not used: 1. Lice WAQAILITI; 9. Laisana MATAELE; 14. Mereani GALO; 16. Margaret MORRIS; 19. Kinisimere RAVAI.
Injured:
Suspended:
Not available:
Cautions:
Red cards:
Goal scorers: 6. Adiela KURIKABA (45'+3); 17. Unaisi MOCE (53', 72').
Referee: Fiti AIMAASU (SAM)
Assistant Referee: Michael JOSEPH (VAN)
Assistant Referee: Nawen HOPKEN (VAN)
Fourth Official: Jacques AVERII (TAH)
Fifth Official: Mahit CHILIA (VAN)
MATCH PHOTOS:
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PENATETI FEKE GETS TONGA HOME
Friday, 31 August 07, 13:39 PM
TONGA 2 (LOTOAINU 47', FEKE 87') NEW CALEDONIA 0
Penateti Feke showed her class, pace and importance to Tongan women's football this afternoon as she scored the decisive goal that sent Tonga into pole position in XIII South Pacific Games - Samoa 2007 Group B.
Feke - who had a good tournament at the OFC Women's World Cup Qualifying tournament in Lae, Papua New Guinea, earlier this year, was in fine form against a New Caledonia team that was making its debut at this level of international competition.
New Caledonia made Tonga work hard for their victory and gave a good account of themselves in some of the hottest conditions seen since the XIII South Pacific Games got underway.
It was New Caledonia who made the most incisive start of the two teams when Lenka Romone broke through the usually resolute Tongan defence and tested goalkeeper Mele Likiliki with a low shot that had the Tongan custodian scrambling.
After that anxious moment, Feke emerged as a danger everytime she got the ball, missing three chances in quick succession. New Caledonia to their credit were hardly being outclassed and they mustered several useful opportunities of their own through Romone and Marjorie Pouye who were always willing to test Likiliki.
Toward the end of the first half New Caledonia's Marjorie Pouye was put through on Tonga's goal but squandered the chance when Sala Veamatahau intervened with a timely challenge.Pouye's miss came back to haunt New Caledonia when just two minutes after the restart Heilala Lotoaniu latched onto a long ball over the top of the New Caledonia back four, drew the goalkeeper off her line, before completing a tidy finish to give Tonga a 1-0 lead.
New Caledonia hit straight back with Marylise Lolo broke through the Tongan defence forcing Likiliki to race off her line and dive bravely at her feet near the edge of the 18 yard box. The collision left Lolo flat on the deck as the experienced 25-year-old Tonga goalkeeper emerged unscathed.
With just 3 minutes to go the result was put beyond doubt when Feke raced clear of the tiring New Caledonia defence and struck a sweet left foot shot beyond Pouidja and into the back of the net for a decisive second goal.
Tongan coach Kilife Uele was not getting carried away with the result however, offering that "we need to do better - complete more passes, be more uncomprimising on defence and finish our opportunities. In saying that, I'm still very proud of the performance from our girls - especially Penateti, who was very good today."
"For our next match we need to play together more often, and make our outstanding individuals shine through structured team play".
Tonga will certainly have a challenge when they play Tahiti on Saturday September 1, at 1000hrs (GMT-13). Tahiti will go into the match with complete confidence after clinically dispatching a dangerous Samoan side whose talents sharply contradict the 4-0 scoreline suffered against Tahiti this evening. Samoa will look for a result against New Calendonia in the night game on Saturday, which kicks off at 2030hrs (GMT-13).
LIVE UPDATES:
0' - the teams enter the field on a partially cloudy but very humid day, with New Caledonia to kick off
2' - New Caledonia dominate possesion, but Tonga manage to contain them in the middle third
2' - Tonga give away a free kick at the bottom of the circle from which Lenka ROMONE shoots, but Mele LIKILIKI saves well low
3' - Penateti FEKE breaks down the right flank for Tonga, but shoots across the face of goal from the angle
5' - FEKE breaks again, this time shooting over the crossbar from a similar position
7' - Lenka ROMONE swings in a corner for New Calendonia, but it is managed well by the Tongan defense
8' - FEKE is through one goal again, but Honorine POUIDJA in the New Caledonian goal is off her line well
10' - Delphine POINRI has a shot on the Tonga goal, but narrowly misses left
11' - Sala VEAMATAHAU intervenes well at the back for Tonga to clear a series of aerial New Caledonian passes
11' - ROMONE has another shot from a deep free kick, which LIKLIKI collects easily
13' - Marjorie POUYE has a shot from distance, but it is wide for a goal kick
15' - Salote LAUTAHA crosses well to the near post, but POUIDJA is equal to the task
16' - Marylise LOLO is through on goal, but LIKLIKI dives well at her feet, and VEAMATAHAU scrambles the loose ball away
17' - Tonga has New Caledonia under pressure in attack as a light drizzle meanders over the J.S. Blatter Playing Fields
20' - POUIDJA punches well in traffic from a lobbed cross
21' - New Caledonia are off the hook with a free kick on the edge of their 18 yard box
21' - #3. Marie WANAKAIJA receives a yellow card for a foul in the corner
22' - Salome VAENUKU's free kick fails to find FEKE at the D, and New Caledonia clear the danger
22' - #18. Lola TARA receives a yellow card while contesting possesion in the middle of the park
24' - POUIDJA is off her line well into oncoming traffic, and secures possesion for New Caledonia
25' - a LOLO corner is cleared will by Kulia FILO, which puts Tonga straight on attack for Heilala LOTOANIU to bend a shot across the face of the New Caledonian goal
30' - Heilala LOTOANIU bears down on goal for Tonga, only for Alice MATHIEU to put in a superb challenge and send the ball for a corner
33' - Tonga fails to register a shot on goal despite another period of concerted pressure around the New Caledonian area
36' - MATHIEU is proving invaluable for New Caledonia, marshalling the defense to allow New Caledonia to gain territory
37' - ROMONE releases a powerful curling volley only metres wide from a LOLO corner, then features again on defense following a quick Tonga attack made possible by a lengthy LIKILIKI goal kick
39' - LOTOANIU checks on a break to provide for Matelita MISINALE, but ROMONE intervenes well for New Caledonia
43' - Stephanie IAKEWE puts Marjorie POUYE through to cross from the bye-line, only for VEAMATAHAU to clear with a strong defensive header
-- 1 minute added time --
45'+1 - FEKE bears down on a through ball, but POUIDJA is out well again
45'+1 - POUIDJA secures possession for New Caledonia from an awkward through ball
HALF TIME: TONGA 0 NEW CALEDONIA 0
45' - the second half is underway at an increased pace, despite the Tongan team playing to the crowd and dancing along to the venue's music during the break
47' - GOAL!
#10. Heilala LOTOANIU latches on to a long clearance, draws POUIDJA from her goal, and calmy slots a right-footed finish into the corner of the net...cue more dancing from the Tongan spectators and supporters alike
46' - New Caledonia captain Floraine DIAINON remains lying face-down on the ground from the Tongan break that led to the goal, and leaves the field to receive treatment
48' - LIKILIKI bravely races off her line to collide with LOLO, but wins the ball...leaving LOLO on the ground
51' - LOTOANIU is denied by a solid block from POUIDJA, as the ball bounces across the New Caledonian penalty box
53' - New Caledonia manage consecutive Tongan corners well, to channel possesion back in their favour
57' - New Caledonia captain #6. Floraine DIAINON succumbs to a leg injury, and is replaced by #14. Virginie HOUQUET
62' - play flows freely across the park, as New Caledonia expand their style in search of an equaliser
63' - IAKEWE releases a long range shot, which LIKILIKI collects without trouble
64' - #7. Marjorie POUYE is replaced by #12. Glenda JANE for New Calendonia
66' - FEKE is dangerous on the counter attack for Tonga, forcing a corner which New Calendonia clear well
67' - LOTOANIU is through on goal, but denied well by POUIDJA after releasing her shot early
69' - #4. Pesalini LAVE receives a yellow card for a crunching challenge on Elodie TEIN-POAWI, who leaves the field for treatment
72' - LOTOANIU has an opportunity to put Tonga another goal ahead, but produces an intelligent stop from POUIDJA
74' - Lola TARA travels across the top of the 18 yard box, and releases a dangerous shot wide
74' - IEKAWE crosses for TARA to volley narrowly wide
74' - Mele NIUKAPU remains down near the Tongan penalty spot and leaves the field for treatment
74' - Tongan goalkeeper #1. Mele LIKILIKI is shown a yellow card for time-wasting following the delay for NIUKAPU's injury
75' - #2. Mele NIUKAPU succumbs to the injury, replaced by #18. Maumea MAFI
77' - two Tongan players clash heads bearing down on the New Caledonia goal, one requiring treatment to the side of the field
79' - New Caledonia has a series of attempts on the Tongan goal, but none find the target
81' - Lola TARA releases a venomous strike on goal, which LIKILIKI needs to palm down, but regathers
85' - Tonga's #8. Neomai TUPOU is replaced by #15. Salote LAUTAHA
87' - GOAL!
#12. Penateti FEKE finds space on the left side of the penalty box, and rolls a left-footed finish across POUIDJA in the New Caledonian goal to score the winner for Tonga
87' - #11. Stephanie IAKEWE is replaced by #16. Antonia PALAOU for New Caledonia
90' - #9. Atelaite MANU receives a yellow card
-- 2 minutes added time --
90'+1 - LIKILIKI saves well from a curling HOUQUET strike
FULL TIME: TONGA 2 NEW CALEDONIA 0
MATCH PHOTOS:
XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007
Women’s Group B
Match Day 3 – 1500 – 30 August 2007
Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa
TONGA: 1. Mele LIKILIKI [gk][c]; 2. Mele NIUKAPU (18. Maumea MAFI 75'); 3. Kulia FILO; 4. Pesalini LAVE; 5. Sala VEAMATAHAU; 7. Salome VAENUKU; 8. Neomai TUPOU (15. Salote LAUTAHA 85'); 9. Atelaite MANU; 10. Heilala LOTOANIU; 11. Matelita MISINALE; 12. Penateti FEKE.
Coach: Kilifi UELE
Substitutes not used: 6. Olive MATEIALONA; 13. Makeleta FOLAUMOETAO; 14. Unise HAFOKA; 17. Lose PELE; 19. Uluaki KAUFUSI; 20. Elanoa LAUHINGOA [gk].
Injured: 16. Karen UTAATU.
Suspended:
Not available:
Cautions: 4. Pesalini LAVE (69'); 1. Mele Likiliki (74'); 9. Atelaite MANU (90').
Red cards:
Goal scorers: 10. Heilala LOTOAINU (47'); 12. Penateti FEKE (87').
NEW CALEDONIA: 1. Honorine POUIDJA [gk]; 2. Delphine POINRI; 3. Marie WANAKAIJA; 5. Alice MATHIEU; 6. Floraine DIAINON [c] (14. Virginie HOUQUET 57'); 7. Marjorie POUYE (12. Glenda JAINE 64'); 8. Elodie TEIN-POAWI; 9. Marylise LOLO; 11. Stephanie IEKAWE (16. Antonia PALAOU 87'); 17. Lenka ROMONE; 18. Lola TARA.
Coach: Stephane DELANDE
Substitutes not used: 4. Fanny SEE; 10. Celine XOLAWAWA; 13. Genevieve DEOUWI; 15. Madeleine JAINE; 19. Audrey SINEM; 20. Lucie MOYATEA [gk].
Injured:
Suspended:
Not available:
Cautions: 3. Marie WANAKAIJA (21'); 18. Lola TARA (22').
Red cards:
Goal scorers:
Referee: Finau VULIVULI (FIJ)
Assistant Referee: Brent BEST (NZL)
Assistant Referee: Jackson NAMO (SOL)
Fourth Official: Lencie FRED (VAN)
Fifth Official: Hilary ANI (PNG)
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WOMEN'S MATCH DAY 3 - 'live updates' from Apia
Friday, 31 August 07, 11:24 AM
The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) would firstly like to thank our worldwide audience for their passionate interest and patience in receiving ‘live updates’ broadcast directly from the Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Playing Fields in Apia, Samoa.
OFC will again attempt to bring you action from today’s games in the women’s tournament as it happens, and thanks you in advance for your understanding should any delays occur.
Today’s matches are as follows:
*all kick-off times GMT -13
1500: Tonga v New Caledonia
American Samoa v Fiji
1800: Cook Islands v Solomon Islands
2030: Tahiti v Samoa
Today's action hosts the first fixtures in the Women's Group B - with Tonga taking on New Caledonia, and Tahiti against Samoa.
The Samoan women carry the weight of a nation on their shoudlers, with the fortunes of their men's team hinging on other results, as the Samoan locals look to get behind a team that will go all the way.
French-speaking nations Tahiti and New Caledonia are somewhat of an unknown quantity, but the New Caledonian midfield carries an impressive reputation and will surely put Tonga's no-nonsense play to the test.
Group A action continues with American Samoa looking to continue their impressive displays so far against the might of Fiji, and Cook Islands will look for their first win against Solomon Islands - who are without their inspirational captain Vanessa Inifiri.
OFC look forward to providing up to date and precise information that will bring the matches as close to you as possible!
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