The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) wishes to advise the rescheduling of tomorrow’s semi-final fixtures at the XIII South Pacific Games Men’s and Women’s football tournaments to accommodate television coverage by Pacific broadcaster RFO.

At tomorrow’s semi-finals OFC will be using the platform of the world’s most popular sport to make a clear statement to people around Oceania about soccer’s united stance alongside the United Nations by marking the four semi-final matches as an official OFC/UN Millennium Development Goal Day at the XIII South Pacific Games – Samoa 2007.  

Three of the four semi-final matches will be broadcast live throughout Oceania.

For full details contact Executive Producer Michael Williams at (+685) 38009 or 7591166

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES - SAMOA 2007

5 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields

(all GMT-13) 

kick-off         fixture                                                         competition

1230hrs         Fiji v Tonga                                                  Women's Semi-Final 2

1500hrs         Solomon Islands v New Caledonia              Men's Semi-Final 1

1800hrs         Fiji v Vanuatu                                              Men's Semi-Final 2

2030hrs         Tahiti v Papua New Guinea                         Women's Semi-Final 1     

When available, 'live updates' can be found during match days by refreshing your browser periodically. 

 

Samoa’s best, and smallest young talent will be on show over the days surrounding the final matches of the XIII South Pacific Games – Samoa 2007, at the Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Playing Fields in Apia.

The ‘Mini South Pacific Games’, organised and hosted by the Samoa Football (Soccer) Federation (SFSF), will see teams from primary schools across the country’s two main islands of Upolu and Savaii compete for the esteemed mantle – “Primary School Champ of Champs”.

The tournament is taking place on pitch two – where just yesterday the Fijian women’s team and Vanuatu’s men marauded into the semi-finals of the South Pacific Games proper, and Tahiti and Cook Islands fought memorably with pride on the line.

Two fields have been created – running across the pitch widthways – with adoring parents, family, friends and enthusiastic football fans alike lining the grassy banks in scenes not dissimilar to those witnessed as the Samoan women came within a whisker of what would have been a sensational effort in qualifying for the main tournament’s next phase.

Despite of the valiant, yet unsuccessful efforts of the country’s senior sides at these South Pacific Games, spirits are tangibly high amongst all involved with the ‘Champ of Champs’ concept.

The SFSF has thrown considerable support behind the event, with President Afioga Toleafoa Tautulu Roebeck and Oceania Football Confederation General Secretary Tai Nicholas on the list of dignitaries present for the opening ceremony.

“Football has unbelievable potential to not only put Samoa on a world stage competitively, as we have seen over the past few days, but also to be used as a development tool to foster positive relations in and between community groups, schools, and the church.

“It is my pleasure to be invited to attend this special occasion, where the youth of your beautiful country have the chance to shine on their own stage, and walk in the footsteps of their heroes.”

Events surrounding the Champ of Champs also have the honour to be ushered in by iconic “MC from Savaii” Tofa Falefata Tuaniu Petaia, and in the esteemed presence of Reverend Ieriko Sopoaga, Samoan Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture representative Afioga Lemalu Siomia.

The tournament whirlwinds through its own semi-final stage today, with boy’s and girl’s teams from the under 10, 12, and 14 age groups competing for the right to be crowned ‘Samoan Football (Soccer) Federation Primary Schools Champ of Champs’ after finals day on Thursday.

Samoa were unceremoniously, but valiantly exiled from their own tournament today at the hands of close rivals Tonga.

Heading into the match knowing that a win would see them qualify for the semi-finals and a likely encounter with Oceanic heavyweights Fiji, the task seemed relatively simple for the host nation – score more goals than Tonga.

With exciting prospects such as Florence Lam Sam and Natalie Davies promising so much against Tahiti and New Caledonia earlier in the tournament, it looked positive from the outset for Samoa. They maintained nigh-on constant pressure for the majority of the fixture, with only the unique Penateti Feke posing any real threat when she burst away in counter-attack mode for Tonga.

Samoa were almost their own worst enemies, as they had plenty of possession but just could not hit the target enough to make Mele Likiliki earn her keep between the sticks for Tonga. However it does need to be addressed that when required, Likiliki was outstanding on the night – also assuming the mantle of captaining her country.

It was a fixture where each country’s water-tight defences cancelled each other out, with Samoa’s Henifa Bryce dispatching anything that looked like heading goalwards deep into the surrounding night sky, including a battered Feke on numerous occasions.

To Feke’s credit, she bounced back every time – and this will be a quality that is for certain required when Tonga faces Fiji on Wednesday.

A huge, vocal crowd had gathered at the Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Playing Fields – and when the final whistle blew, a disbelieving silence wrung louder than the multilingual chants that had graced the previous 90 minutes.

The tournament moves to the semi-final stages now, with Wednesday dictating who will get the chance to play off in the tournament final – and ultimately a shot at New Zealand to qualify for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

 

WEDNESDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 2007

1500 (GMT-13)   Tahiti v Papua New Guinea
1500 (GMT-13)   Fiji v Tonga

^{*times subject to change for television coverage}

 

LIVE UPDATES:

1' - the match is underway on a mild evening in Apia, with a modest but vocal crowd on hand

2' - Tamasailau Leuta hits a powerful drive from the angle, but Mele Likiliki is equal to the task with a strong left hand

2' - Florence Lam Sam is down injured from a late challenge, and leaves the field for treatment

4' - Samoa are enjoying a spell of sustained pressure in Tonga's defensive half

7' - Lam Sam is back on the field for Samoa

10' - save for two counter-attacks, Samoa has completely dominated the game thus far

12' - the crowd is streaming in, with locals moving to the football from other events around the Faleata Sports Complex

15' - Rosa Malama Solomona saves bravely at the feet of Penateti Feke, but takes a knock and requires brief treatment on the pitch

20' - Samoa is well and truly on top at this stage, but with no reward

22' - Tonga win a corner, but the ball is quickly dispatched back into the Tonga defensive half

27' - Semeatu Lemana turns to release a shot destined for the left corner of the net, but Likiliki produces a top-drawer save to concede a corner

28' - Claire Meni brings down Feke at full pace, conceding a free kick from which Tonga narrowly clear the crossbar from Matelita Misinale's head

33' - the Samoan defence recognises the threat of Feke bringing her down again, this time requiring treatment

35' - Solomona moves well to meet Salome Vaunuku's free kick from the left hand side

37' - Solomona again beats two Tongan frontrunners to the ball, which ricochets for Meni to clear and Samoa to return on attack

38' - Likiliki leaves her line to claim a high cross on her chest, through a pack of players

39' - Salote Lautaha has a go from distance, but her shot is well right for a goal kick

41' - Solomona is down again following a collision with Lautaha, requiring further treatment

-- 3 minutes added time --

45'+2 - Salome Veamatahau rattles the crossbar with a dipping left foot volley from 30 yards 

 

HALF TIME: TON 0 SAM 0 

 

47' - Marylynn Williams drives an early free kick straight into the Tongan wall

48' - the crowd is still building for what should be an entertaining second half, with a victory for either side seeing them continue in the competition

52' - the match is more evenly poised after the break, with Tonga enjoying time in Samoa's half

55' - #16. Marylynn WILLIAMS makes way for #12 June TUPOU

56' - Sala Veamatahau attempts to break the net from 40 yards, but her shot tails wide

57' - Samoa hit Tonga on the break, but can not register a shot on target

62' - the game is filtering from end to end, but with no clear opportunities for either side 

71' - the game is still at a stalemate, with Tonga looking to hold the scoreline and qualify for the semi finals

77' - #8. Neomai TUPOU makes way for #13. Makeleta FOLAUMOETAO

80' - Feke lines up from a 25 yard free kick, but shoots well over 

83' - #6. Anarosa SIMONE makes way for #19. Sinaro PIO as Samoa search for the goal that would qualify them for the semi-finals

84' - Likiliki rescues Tonga when a loose ball runs through traffic from a Samoan free kick

86' - Feke is cut down on her route to goal in what looks like a penalty, but the referee signals a goal kick 

88' - #18. Maumea MAFI receives a yellow card for a vital foul preventing a Samoan counter attack

88' - Feke is down again in the box, this time a little less suspiciously

-- 2 minutes added time --

 

FULL TIME: TON 0 SAM 0 

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Women’s Group B

Match Day 5 – 2030 – 3 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

   

TONGA: 1. Mele LIKILIKI [gk][c]; 3. Kula FILO; 4. Pesalini LAVE; 5. Sala VEAMATAHAU; 7. Salome VAENUKU; 8. Neomai TUPOU (13. Makeleata FOLAUMOETAO 77'); 10. Heilala LOTOANIU; 11. Matelita MISINALE; 12. Penateti FEKE; 15. Salote LAUTAHA; 18. Maumea MAFI.

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 2. Mele NIKAPAU; 6. Olive MATEIALONA; 14. Unise HAFOKA; 16. Karen UTAATU; 17. Lose PELE; 19. Uluaki KAUFUSI; 20. Elenoa LAUHINGOA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended: 9. Atelaite MANU.

Not available:  

 

Cautions: 18. Maumea MAFI (88').

Red cards:

Goal scorers:  

SAMOA: 1. Rosa Malama SOLOMONA [gk]; 3. Henifa BRYCE; 4. Claire MENI; 5. Leti TAMASESE; 6. Anarosa SIMONE (Sinaro PIO 83'); 7. Semeatu LEMANA; 9. Natalie DAVIES; 10. Florence LAM SAM; 13. Tamasailau LEUTA; 14. Vaitofigalumepa TIPERIA; 16. Marylynn WILLIAMS (12. June TUPOU 55').

Coach: Junior SAAGA

Substitutes not used: 2. Helena THOMPSON; 15. Rasela PEILUA; 18. Saini UMUTAUA; 20. Rosina IAKOPO; 21. Kalaponi LEATO.

Injured: 11. Rosei LEOTA; 17. Havira TAYLOR.

Suspended:

Not available: 

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers:

   

Referee: Chris LENGATA (SOL)

Assistant Referee: Jackson NAMO (SOL)

Assistant Referee: Hamilton SIAU (SOL)

Fourth Official: Jacques AVERII (TAH)

 

 

Tahiti women's team confirmed their passage to the semi-finals of the XIII South Pacific Games Women's Football Tournament after an exciting 2-0 win over New Caledonia. New Caledonia contributed much to this tournament despite their three defeats and no goals and will have learned much from their first experience at this level of the game.

For Tahiti, the dream continues with Maima Marmouyet driving her team on with some important contributions toward her team's creative cutting edge. Stephanie Iakewe had New Caledonia's best chance but her dipping volley just cleared the crossbar missing by centimetres.

Gloria Hauata put Tahiti ahead after 60 minutes with a long range effort that flew in past Honorine Pouidja's left hand upright. The goal was a cruel blow for New Caledonia for whom luck has been in short supply at this tournament. 

At 1-0 down, New Caledonia launched one final push in search of a goal and it was at this juncture that Hauata exploited the extra space and lobbed Pouidja to make it 2-0 to Tahiti sealing qualification for the semi-finals and sending New Caledonia home without a point or a goal to show for their efforts. 

 

LIVE UPDATES:

2' - the cloud cover from the last 24 hours has broken in Apia, creating a picturesque evening setting and reducing the humidity markedly

9' - both teams look keen to keep the ball in possession, with play concentrated in the middle third of the pitch

13' - the match is being played in good spirits thus far, with very few stoppages in play

17' - Tania Bonnefin pivots at the top of the penalty area, but shoots over

19' - Honorine Pouidja is off her line well to prevent Maima Marmouyet from capitalising on a well-weighted through ball

26' - New Caledonia is now looking to play through the wings, trying to get behind the Tahitian defence

29' - Poroni Turana double-handles Marylise Lolo's free kick from the edge of the area, regathering before any pressure can be added

32' - Marmouyet scythes a left foot volley across the six yard box, but Bonnefin can not connect and play runs for a throw

32' - Gloria Hauata is shaken in a heavy challenge from Madeleine Jane, and leaves the field to compose herself

33' - #15. Madeleine JAINE is shown a yellow card for the challenge

40' - Stephanie Iakewe tries to ignite the match with a dipping shot from distance on the left, but the ball clears the crossbar before peaking its descent

42' - Marmouyet runs from half way, beating two players before rifling a shot at Pouidja, who holds with relative ease

-- 1 minute added time --

 

HALF TIME: NCL 0 TAH 0

 

46' - #13. Genevieve DEOUWI takes the field in place of #12. Glenda JAINE for the second half

46' - Tahiti make two changes at the break, replacing #17. Monique TOKORAGI with #6. Angela THUNOT, and #9. Tania BONNEFIN with #8. Laverna TARIHAA 

47' - Maima Marmouyet bears down on goal again, but Pouidja is equal to the task once she shoots

51' - Patricia Yakeula releases a huge clearance downfield, putting New Caledonia under instant pressure from which they recover well

54' - Pouidja is again solid in the New Caledonian goal, rising to claim a Tahiti free kick from their left side

57' - Gloria Hauata turns and shoots from distance, producing a reflex save from Pouidja with her right arm

58' - Marylise Lolo bears down on Turana in the Tahitian goal, to produce a fantastic one-on-one save at her feet

59' - #2. Patricia YAKEULA brings down Floraine DIAINON on her path to goal, and receives a yellow card

60' - GOAL!

#10. Gloria HAUATA again pulls the trigger from distance, this time to Pouidja's left and finding the back of the net 

63' - #5. Alice MATHIEU replaces #4. Fanny SEE for New Caledonia

67' - Yakeula is warned for over-aggresive play when setting about on a marauding run out of defence

70' - New Caledonia withdraw #11. Stephanie IAKEWE to be replaced by #2. Delphine POINRI

71' - Hauata has another crack at goal from distance, but Poudija saves on this occasion

73' - Houquet flicks on a Wanakaija free kick, but Turana claims comfortably

75' - Yakeula runs the ball out of defence again, this time running out of space and options on the left side

78' - GOAL!

#10. Gloria HAUATA finds space again, this time lobbing Pouidja with her finish

81' - Poinri crosses from very wide for Houquet to head wide from 12 yards

84' - Tahiti are by no means resting on their laurels with the lead, rather looking to build towards the semi-finals in style by continuing to push

-- 1 minute added time --

 

FULL TIME: NCL 0 TAH 2

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Women’s Group B

Match Day 5 – 1800 – 3 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

   

NEW CALEDONIA: 1. Honorine POUIDJA [gk]; 3. Marie WANAKAIJA; 4. Fanny SEE (5. Alice MATHIEU 63'); 6. Floraine DIAINON; 8. Elodie TEIN-POAWI; 9. Marylise LOLO; 11. Stephanie IAKEWE (2. Delphine POINRI 70'); 12. Glenda JAINE (13. Genevieve DEOUWI 46'); 14. Virginie HOUQUET; 15. Madeleine JAINE; 17. Lenka ROMONE.

Coach: Stephane DELANDE

Substitutes not used: 7. Marjorie POUYE; 10. Celine XOLAWAWA; 16. Antonia PALAOU; 18. Lola TARA; 19. Audrey SINEM; 20. Lucie MOYATEA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended:

Not available:  

 

Cautions: 15. Madeleine JAINE (33').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 

 

 

TAHITI: 1. Poroni TURANA [gk]; 2. Patricia YAKUELA; 4. Maruina TOM SING VEIN; 5. Angela TAIRUI; 9. Tania BONNEFIN (8. Laverna TARIHAA 46'); 10. Gloria HAUATA; 12. Maima MARMOUYET; 13. Felicite KAIHA; 14. Sandrine TEAUNA; 15. Gwendoline TEPEA; 17. Monique TOKORAGI (6. Angelina THUNOT 46').

Coach: Ralph APURII

Substitutes not used: 7. Mimosa MARMOUYET; 11. Jeanne MAHIATAPU; 16. Juliana MAETA; 18. Nathalie TOPA; 20. Wilhermine MAIRAU [gk].

Injured:

Suspended: 3. Josaine TAURAA

Not available: 

Cautions: 2. Patricia YAKEULA (59').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 10. Gloria HAUATA (60', 78').

 

  

Referee: Finau VULIVULI (FIJ)

Assistant Referee: Rodney ALLEN (AUS)

Assistant Referee: Teariki GOODWIN (COK)

Fourth Official: Neil FOX (NZL)

 

Tahiti recorded a 1-0 win over Cook Islands amid acrimonious scenes at Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field in Apia this afternoon where referee Fiti Aimaasu was the busiest figure in a match where players from both teams lost their discipline.

Tahiti showed more interest in the opening half of this match than they had in their previous three matches and they had Cook Islands pegged back deep into their own half for long periods. Axel Williams - Tahiti's tall pacy striker - stood out yet again as a player of some quality constantly posing a threat to Cook Islands with his smart interplay with Roimoana Bennett and Teva Zaveroni.

The closest Cook Islands came to scoring was when Paul Luiz van Eijk overhit a cross deep to the far post that forced goalkeeper Jonathan Torohio into making a sharp readjustment at the last second to deflect the ball out for a corner.

By contrast, Cook Islands goalkeeper Tony Jamieson was required on a regular basis to quell frequent Tahitian forays into his penalty area with saves from Zaveroni, Tinorua and Tauimara enough to keep the scores level.

The mood changed after 53 minutes when Tahiti's Raimoana Bennett was sent off after he ploughed head long straight through Cook Islands goalkeeper Tony Jamieson leaving the goalkeeper in a crumpled still heap on the penalty spot. Cook Islands and Tahitian players descended on the scene of the collision as a pushing and shoving match ensued that threatened to spill out of control until Aimaasu assumed command with the help of his assistant referee.

The peaceful mood changed for the worst when Temarii Tinorua lobbed a ball over the top of Jamieson and into the Cook Islands net to make it 1-0 to Tahiti after 64 minutes. Even the most gifted clairvoyant could not have predicted the mayhem that would ensue just a minute later when first Miitamariki Joseph was red carded for Cook Islands, to be followed at lightening speed by team-mate Thomas Le Mouton for a crude challenge on Tinorua after 66 minutes.

With Cook Islands reduced to nine players, Tahiti to ten, the sparsely populated pitch still managed to host further flashpoints as the match descended further in value as a spectacle. Cook Islands missed one last chance through Augusty Bartillard and when the whistle ended Tahiti were grateful of their win but both teams had very little else to celebrate.

LIVE UPDATES:

0'- The FIFA anthemn rings out around Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field in Apia, Samoa, as Cook Islands and Tahiti make their way onto the pitch for their final game at XIII South Pacific Games/FIFA World Cup qualifying

3'- Its a very slippery surface as the rain continues to fall on a very firm surface on pitch number two

5'- Tahiti have their first shot on goal but Tony JAMIESON is more than equal to the task for Cook Islands

7'- Long ball forward by Cook Islands behind the Tahiti defence and possession is given away as Billy Matatitai gains the ball for Tahiti

10'- Temarii TINORUA shoots from outside the Cook Islands penalty area but it's easily saved by JAMIESON

11'- Teva ZAVERONI to take a free kick for Tahiti on the right hand side of Cook Islands penalty area but again its Tony JAMIESON to the rescue as he plucks the ball off Billy MATAITAI's attempted header 

13'- Thomas LE MOUTON steals possession from ZAVERONI and makes an exciting burst down the left but he's cut off by Jean-Yves LI WA UT and its a corner

14'- Cook Islands corner is a poor one and Tahiti have possession again

15'- Axel WILLIAMS is denied by Cook Islands goal keeper Tony JAMIESON who makes a great save

17'- Tahiti apply pressure with a free kick but Cook Islands Steven WILLIS hacks the ball clear

18'- Another ball played in by Tahiti and JAMIESON makes a sprawling dive to reclaim the ball for Cook Islands

20'- Teariki MATEARIKI - Cook Islands two-goal hero from the Tuvalu match - wins a free kick for Cook Islands 

21'- Tahiti look highly motivated for this match dominating territory but without creating many clear cut chances

22'- Paul Luiz VAN EIJK thumps a long ball forward and its out for a Tahiti throw-in deep inside the French-Polynesian half

23'- Thomas LE MOUTON breaks forward and slips a ball in for Anonga TISAM but the striker is ruled offside

24'- Freddy TAUIMARA slings a hopeful 40 yard pass intended for Billy MATAITAI but its hit too hard and its a Cook Islands throw-in

25'- Axel WILLIAMS plays an intelligent one-two with Raimoana BENNETT but the return pass finds WILLIAMS offside

27'- Billy MATAITAI has a go from long range and Tony JAMIESON saves easily for the Cook Islands

28'- Cook Islands are being stretched by some quick interplay from TETAVAHI and MATAITAI

29'- TINORUA shoots but JAMIESON saves

32'- New Caledonia and Fiji are also locked at 0-0 in Group A's other match

34'- Cook Islands have acquitted themselves well but will have to watch they don't get caught on the break when they lose possession in midfield 

35'- Throw-in for Cook Islands and now MATERARIKI breaks but is caught in possession - ZAVERONI shoots from 20m and JAMIESON bumbles the ball after it skids off the slick surface but he recovers with WILLIAMS lingering for scraps

35'- Augusty BARTILLARD has a go from long distance but his shot lacked both the pace and accuracy to cause Jonathan TOROHIA any problems

36'- Anonga TISAM and Freddy TAUIMARA collide in a tough challenge on half way and referee Fiti AIMAASU issues TISAM with a stern warning.

37'- Its a Cook Islands fee kick played wide to VAN EIJK whose cross whistles in and forces TOROHIA into a desperate back pedalling save and its a corner for the Cook Islands 

38'- Steven WILLIS heads the resulting corner goalwards and TOROHIA saves - its another corner for Cook Islands

38'- SUBSTITUTION

#12. Anonga TISAM is replaced by #16. Daniel SHEPHERD for Cook Islands

40'- Tony JAMIESON comes screaming off his line to claim a TINORUA freekick but he drops the ball and a goal mouth scramble erupts with JAMIESON flailing - eventually Cook Islands clear the danger but what a heart stopping moment!

43'- TOROHIA claims a Cook Islands free kick easily and sets Tahiti away on a sweeping counter attack

45'- The first half comes to a close with no time added on  for stoppages and its a stale mate here between Tahiti and Cook Islands. 

HALF TIME: TAH 0 COK 0 

46'- Cook Islands take a free kick but the danger is repelled by Tahiti

47'- Axel WILLIAMS breaks quickly for Tahiti and Paul Luiz VAN EIJK makes an excellent tackle

48'- Tahiti corner is claimed by Tony JAMIESON

53'- RED CARD

#10. Raimoana BENNETT  of Tahiti is sent off for a shocking challenge on Cook Islands goalkeeper Tony JAMIESON 

55'- YELLOW CARD

#7. Billy MATAITAI of Tahiti goes into the book - will Tahiti self-destruct?

64'- GOAL!

#13. Temarii TINORUA scores for Tahiti and its 1-0 to Tahiti!

65'- RED CARD

#5. Miitamariki JOSEPH of Cook Islands is sent off for throwing an arm at Tahiti captain Teva ZAVERONI

66'- RED CARD

#8. Thomas LE MOUTON of Cook Islands is sent off for a reckless challenge

66'- YELLOW CARD

#1. Tony JAMIESON of Cook Islands is booked by the referee

66'- SUBSTITUTION

#13. Temarii TINORUA is replaced by #11. Auguste WASHETINE of Tahiti

66'- SUBSTITUTION

#2. Paul Luiz VAN EIJK is replaced by 3. Edward BROGAN of Cook Islands

67'- A crazy period of play and the pitch looks sparse with Cook Islands reduced to 9 players, Tahiti to 10, the score still reading 0-1 to Tahiti

70'- The match has descended into an ugly confrontation between two teams seemingly hell-bent on kicking lumps out of each other

79'- SUBSTITUTION

#13. Teariki MATEARIKI is replaced by #18. Nathan TISAM for Cook Islands

79'- SUBSTITUTION

#12. Hiro POROIAE is replaced #2. Teraimaru MERVIN for Tahiti

83'- Cross comes in from the left by MATAITAI but JAMIESON collects

85'- Cook Islands corner but its headed clear by Tahiti 

87'- MATAITAI shoots its out for a corner and the resulting set-play is defended by Cook Islands

89'- BARTILLARD is through on Tahiti's goal but his shot is palmed out by TOROHIA for a corner which is subsequently cleared

-- 6 minutes time added on --

90'+1 - WASHETINE shoots and JAMIESON saves

90 +2 - MATAITAI and WILLIAMS combine well but WILLIAMS shoots wide for Tahiti

90 +3- BARTILLARD is denied by TOROHIA

90 +4 - YELLOW CARD

#18. Axel WILLIAMS of Tahiti is booked

90 + 4 -YELLOW CARD

#21. Angelo TCHEN of Tahiti joins his team-mate in the referees notebook

90 + 6'- Referee brings an acrimonious fixture to conclusion

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

 

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Men’s Group B

Match Day 5 – 1500 – 3 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

 

COOK ISLANDS: 1. Tony JAMIESON; 2. Paul Luiz VAN EIJK (3. Edward BROGAN 66'); 5. Miitamariki JOSEPH; 6. Steven WILLIS; 7. Adrian SHEPHERD; 8. Thomas LE MOUTON; 10. Eugiene TATUAVA; 12. Anonga TISAM (16. Daniel SHEPHERD 38'); 13. Teariki MATEARIKI (18. Nathan TISAM 79'); 15. Paavo MUSTONEN; 17. Augusty BARTILLARD.

Coach: Tim JERKS

Substitutes not used: 4. John PAREANGA; 9. Kunda TOM; 11. Edward DROLLET; 20. Remi WEARING; 21. Jimmy KATOA.

Injured: None.

Not available: None.

Cautions: 10. Eugene TATUAVA (52'); 1. Tony JAMIESON (66'). 

Red cards: 5. Miitaamariki JOSEPH (65'); 8. Thomas LE MOUTON (68').

Goal scorers:

TAHITI: 1. Jonathan TOROHIA; 3. Jean-Yves LI WA UT; 4. Freddy TAUIMARA; 7. Billy MATAITAI; 8. Jerome TETAVAHI; 10. Raimoana BENNETT; 12. Hiro POROIAE (2. Teraimaru MERVIN 79'); 13. Temarii TINORUA (11. Auguste WASHETINE 71'); 18. Axel WILLIAMS; 20. Teva ZAVERONI; 21. Angelo TCHEN. 

Coach: Gerard KAUTAI

Substitutes not used: 15. Farahia TEUIRA; 22. Daniel TAPETA; 23. Xavier SAMIN.

Injured: 6. Samuel GARCIA; 9. Raimana LEE FUNG KUEE; 19. Axel TEMATAUA.

Suspended: None

Not available:

Cautions: 12. Hiro POROIAE (46'); 7. Billy MATAITAI (55'); 18. Axel WILLIAMS (90'+4); 21. Angelo TCHEN (90'+4).

Red cards: 10. Raimoana BENNETT (52')

Goal scorers: 13. Temarii TINORUA (64').

Referee: Fiti AIMAASU (SAM)

Assistant Referee: Michael NUGUS (AUS)

Assistant Referee: Tevita MAKASINI (TON)

Fourth Official: Nelson SOGO (SOL)

 

 

Fiji's 100% winning record came to an end after they were held to a 1-1 draw by a disciplined and well-organised New Caledonia at Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field in Apia this afternoon. In a pulsating encounter New Caledonia's stock rose further as they became the first team at these games to match Fiji for tenacity - and in captain Pierre Wajoka, no small amount of skill.

It was Wajoka who opened the scoring for New Caledonia producing a moment of sublime skill that had the crowd and audience at home on television on their feet in appreciation when after 43 minutes the AS Lossi midfielder's free kick ripped past Simione Tamanisau and into the net.

For Juan Carlos Buzzetti's team it was the first time they had fallen behind in a match since the 2-1 defeat in Suva against a New Zealand XI last month with the burning question on everyone's lips whether or not Fiji would be capable of mounting a rescue mission under such intense scruntiny.

With Fiji's starting eleven minus several suspended and at risk-of-suspension players, young Roy Krishna was charged with the task of prising open a New Caledonia defence itself yet to be breached in three previous outings.

Krishna - a prolific goal scorer for Labasa in Fiji's New World National League and at international age-group level - has recently discovered that more well-organised international defences are far less generous with time and space than those at domestic level with Didier Chamberon's team a sparkling example of that theory in practice.

Krishna's frustration, though, was calmed somewhat when the 19 year old won a corner for Fiji that Malakai Kainihewe managed to power home the equaliser from on 56 minutes after good work by Lorima Dau. The rest of the match belonged to Fiji as first Pita Rabo, Ronil Kumar and Osea Vakatalesau went close or struck the New Caledonia woodwork.

With time running out both Juan Carlos Buzzetti and Didier Chamberon looked satisfied with the 1-1 result that saw Fiji and New Caledonia qualify for the semi-finals in first and second place respectively.

 

LIVE UPDATES:

0' - the teams enter to unfamiliar wet conditions, compared to the past week or so in Apia

3' - the match is off to a sedate start, with both teams happy to allow each other to play around half way and through the flanks

4' - Roy Krishna and Osea Vakatalesau work an impressive short corner for Vakatalesau to thunder a shot directly at New Caledonian 'kepper Marc Ounemoa from close range

6' - Wajoka delivers a near post corner for George Wadenges to head wide at full extension

9' - Krishna is fouled down the right flank, resulting in a free kick to Fiji

12' - the free kick comes to nothing, though Jose Hmae stays down after clearing the ball high into midfield

16' - Vakatalesau finds space on the left, but curls his attempt at goal marginally over the crossbar

19' - Ounemoa acts well to smother a Pita Rabo header from distance

23' - Poulidor Toto has a crack from distance, but the shot does not trouble Simione Tamanisau in the Fijian goal

26' - Fijian coach Juan Carlos Buzetti is furious when his team allows Luther Wahnyamalla through on goal, even though he is called offside

31' - both teams seem content to sit and wait for opportunities, with knowledge that both have already secured semi-final berths 

36' - Rabo and Vakatalesau combine well on the right edge of the area to allow Roy Krishna to turn into space and release a left foot strike for the bottom left corner, but Ounemoa is equal to the task and produces a splendid save

38' - Fiji force consecutive corners on opposite sides of the field, but can not register an attempt from goal on either

42' - #16. Malakai TIWA receives a yellow card for high feet

43' - GOAL!

the Fijian defence lets #10. Pierre WAJOKA's free kick run, and it finds its way into the corner of the net

 

HALF TIME: NCL 1 FIJ 0

 

46' - New Caledonia switch #7. Yohann MERCIER for #8. Jean Chrys XENIE at half time

50' - Wahanyamalla has a wild swing at goal from 30 yards on the left, producing a theatrical dive from Tamanisau lacking any real urgency

54' - Krishna speeds towards goal, but is stopped authoritively by Wadenges

55' - Krishna fires the ensuing free kick directly at Wadenges in the wall, resulting in a corner

56' - GOAL!

the corner is headed back across goal by Lorima Dau, for #17. Malakai KAINIHEWE to fire a header inside the upright

58' - #6. George WADENGES is booked for time wasting

63' - Vakatalesau fires a flat cross to the far post, for Rabo to meet with his head and Ounemoa to bundle for a corner

64' - Ronil Kumar gets a sight on goal, but Wadenges is dominant at the back again for New Calendonia

68' - Waqa strikes the inside of the post under close attention from Wadenges, who stays down injured inside the box

75' - #6. George WADENGES takes a rest, for #15. Jean Patrick WAKANUMUNE to replace him

78' - Pita Rabo misses a great opportunity to put Fiji ahead when one-on-one with Ounemoa, striking a bouncing ball 10 yards out from goal over the crossbar 

79' - a stooping Vakatalesau header strikes the post following a whipped delivery from the right courtesy of Tiwa

82' - #18. Poulidor TOTO makes way for #12. Jean Louis TOTO

84' - Ounemoa is out quickly to clear the ball from a marauding Vakatalesau

-- 3 minutes added time --

90' - Vakatalesau produces another falling save from Ounemoa

 

FULL TIME: NCL 1 FIJ 1  

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

 

 

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Men’s Group A

Match Day 5 – 1500 – 3 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa  

 

 

NEW CALEDONIA: 1. Marc OUNEMOA [gk]; 3. Wilson FOREST; 5. Robert WAYARIDI; 6. George WADENGES (15. Jean Patrick WAKANUMUNE 75'); 7. Yohann MERCIER (8. Jean Chrys XENIE 46'); 9. Marys MAPOU; 10. Pierre WAJOKA [c]; 11. Luther WAHNYAMALLA; 13. Jose HMAE; 16. Adolphe BOAOUTHO; 18. Poulidor TOTO (12. Jean Louis TOTO 82').

Coach: Didier CHAMBERON

Substitutes not used: 12. Jean Louis TOTO; 14. Patrick DIAIKI; 17. Iamel KABEU; 19. Patrick DRAWILO; 20. Jean Yann DOUNEZEK [gk].

Injured:

Suspended: 4. Andre SINEDO.

Not available:  

 

Cautions: 6. George WADENGES (58').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 10. Pierre WAJOKA (43'). 

 

 

FIJI: 1. Simione TAMANISAU [gk]; 5. Ronil KUMAR; 6. Lorima DAU; 10. Osea VAKATALESAU; 11. Thomas VULIVULI; 14. Viliame TOMA; 16. Malakai TIWA; 17. Malakai KAINIHEWE; 18. Pita RABO [c]; 19. Roy KRISHNA; 21. Ratu Inosi VATUCICILA.

Coach: Juan Carlos BUZZETTI

Substitutes not used: 2. Alvin AVINESH; 3. Waisake SABUTU; 4. Samuela VULA; 8. Pita BALEITOGA; 9. Josaia BUKALIDI; 12. Peni FINAU; 13. Taniela WAQA; 15. Salesh KUMAR; 30. Benaminio MATEINAQARA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended:

Not available: 

Cautions: 16. Malakai TIWA (42').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 17. Malakai KAINIHEWE (56').  

Referee: Lencie FRED (VAN)

Assistant Referee: Mahit CHILIA (VAN)

Assistant Referee: Michael JOSEPH (VAN)

Fourth Official: Salaiau SOSONGAN (PNG)

 

 

Seule Soromon was too hot to handle for plucky Tonga at Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field today as the pacy striker reeled off a stunning first half hat-trick that formalised Vanuatu's semi-final spot.

But Vanuatu had to overcome a bright start by Tonga who showed some improvement at various stages of each fixture highlighting the value of playing matches regularly at this level of the game.

For ten minutes Tonga looked more than competitive as Vanuatu come off second best in contesting possession but the promising start ran into a hiccup when Soromon scored his first goal after 23 minutes when he turned Matana Paongo on the edge of the box and scored with a neat finish past Kavakava to make it 1-0.

Tonga never came to terms with this body blow as Papani received a yellow card moments before Soromon burst through Tonga's ponderous back four before scoring his and Vanuatu's second goal. Tonga's despondency at falling further behind was palpable and with their semi-final hopes already over and Vanuatu's all but signed off the match entered a flat patch it didn't quite recover from.

Soromon was the exception to this general theme when he pounced upon his hat-trick after Vanuatu skipper Moise Poida's initial shot was parried by Manumua the rebound falling gratefully into the number 10's path.

Malakai Savieti pulled one back for Tonga after 49 minutes but the match was over as a contest long before substitute Victor Maleb scored with virtually his first touch of the match on 75 minutes after Francois Sakama carved Tonga open and ripped a peach of a cross into Maleb's line of vision.

 

 

LIVE UPDATES:

0'- A humid afternoon in Apia greets the national teams of Tonga and Vanuatu in this final match in Group B

1'- Tonga make early in-roads with Kamaliele PAPANI spraying a wonderful pass out wide to Mark UTATAHI whose header is cleared by Chikau MANSALE

3'- Vanuatu take control of possession but Tonga make for a physically formidable defensive unit 

5'- Kavakava MANUMUA is called upon to make a sprawling save at the feet of Seule SOROMON

7'- Vanuatu take a corner that is palmed away by KAVAKAVA for Tonga

10'- Francois SAKAMA collects a nod down in the penalty area from Rexley TARIVUTI and shoots straight at Kavakava MANUMUA

12'- Ilalio LEAKONA tries to play a pass through for Kaisani UHATAHI but its cut out by Tom Philip TOMAKE

13'- Unaloto FEAO unleashes a powerful strike but Kavakava MANUMUA makes a good save 

14'- TOMAKE gives away possession for Vanuatu in a dangerous area and Ilalio LEAKONA's shot is saved by Chikau MANSALE

16'- This is developing into an intriguing battle - Tonga has improved with each match, looked at least the physical equal of any team in Samoa, it seems they are peaking toward the end of the 1st round - what would Tonga be like with more preparation?

17'- Vanuatu keep the ball well but are rushing their final pass into the top third - SOROMON, Fenedy MASAUVAKALO and Moise POIDA look accomplished on the ball

18'- The singing from the SAMOA v SOLOMON ISLANDS drifts across Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field reminding us of the host nation's final match

21'- SOROMON fires a shot over the bar - no danger for Tonga but Vanuatu are getting into their stride now

23'- GOAL!

#10. Seule SOROMON turns his marker on the edge of the box and shoots past Kavakava MANUMUA - it's 1-0 to Vanuatu!

Solomon Islands has taken the lead against Samoa so its 1-0 in both Group B fixtures...

25'- Vanuatu look more comfortable now they have a 1-0 lead. The wind has been taken out of Tonga's sails somewhat

30'- YELLOW CARD

#8. Kamaliele PAPANI goes into referee Job Ponis  MINAN's book

31'- The goal has had a big effect on both teams with Vanuatu now looking very confident. POIDA shoots and forces a save from MANUMUA

32'- Kavakava punches away a cross from Andrew CHICHURA of Vanuatu 

33'- GOAL!

#10. Seule SOROMON puts Vanuatu firmly in control after the Tonga defence is caught square allowing SOROMON to place a tidy effort

35'- Andrew CHICHURA shoots but MANUMUA saves well

35'- SUBSTITUTION

#5. Matana PAONGO is replaced by #19. Lisaniasi KAINGA for Tonga

36'- News filters through that Solomon Islands Benjamin TOTORI has put his country ahead 2-0 over Samoa

37'- Francois SAKAMA's blistering pace takes him clear of Tonga's Folio MOEAKI as he blazes a wild shot wide of the target

40'- GOAL!

#10. Seule SOROMON completes a first-half hat-trick courtesy of Tonga goalkeeper MANUMUA's parried stop from Moise POIDA and it's 3-0 to Vanuatu!

42'- It's almost 4-0 as MANUMUA juggles a POIDA corner in his hands and nearly loses the ball at SAKAMA's feet 

44'- SOROMON is put clear and is followed by Folio MOEAKI who fouls but SOROMON falls rather easily and wins a free kick

-- 1 minute time added on --

45'+1 - The free kick is hungrily clutched by MANUMUA as referee MINAN blows for half time

HALF-TIME: TON 0 VAN 3

46'- The second half gets underway with Vanuatu in total control

46'- SUBSTITUTION

#8. Tom Phillip TOMAKE is replaced by #19. Derek MALAS of Vanuatu

47'- Lisaniasi KAINGA announces his intentions with a long range shot from 26 yards that thuds into the gloves of MANUMUA

49'- Vanuatu win three corners on the trot as POIDA peppers the Tonga six yard box with dangerous inswinging deliveries - Tonga get the ball clear at last and the pressure eases off

49'- GOAL!

#11. Malakai SAVIETI scores for Tonga! Is this a comeback?!

53'- Tonga get a rare chance but Malakai SAVIETI gets the ball tangled in his feet as Vanuatu clear up any danger

60'- Vanuatu's Fenedy MASAUVAKALO breaks through one-on-one with MANUMUA but the Tongan keeper blocks the attempt with his frame

63'- With Vanuatu and Solomon Islands in control of both matches an air of inevitability has descended on Toleafoa JS Blatter Football Field

63'- SUBSTITUTION

#21. Maki HAITONG is replaced by #16. Richard IWAI for Vanuatu

64'- SUBSTITUTION

#7. Sione Vea TAHITUA is replaced by #16. Sione TOVO for Tonga

65'- The rain is falling steadily here in Apia and looks like its here to stay with the sky filled by dark grey cloud - both pitches are in desperate need of moisture and it looks like they will get plenty of it in the coming days

68-' Seule SOROMON's searing pace takes him clear of the Tonga defence but MANUMUA saves well 

69'- Corner conceded by Tonga but it comes to nothing...

73'- SAKAMA races down the right squares the ball for POIDA whose shot goes just wide

74'- SUBSTITUTION

#10. Seule SOROMON is replaced by #15. Victor MALEB

75'- GOAL!

#15. Victor MALEB finishes a lovely cross by Francois SAKAMA and it's a goal for Vanuatu - inspired substitution by coach Alwyn JOB

81'- Long range shot from MALEB is deflected out for a corner which is subsequently cleared by the Tonga defence

82'- Solomon Islands lead Samoa 3-0 so it looks certain that Vanuatu and Solomon Islands will qualify for the semi-finals as predicted 

84'- The match has lost much of its sting as Vanuatu know they have bigger matches to come...Tonga realise that its the end of the road for their South Pacific Games/FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign

87'- Tonga corner delivered by Pio PALU and finds Lafaele MOALA free but MOALA sends the ball searing inches over the crossbar when it looked easier to score!

90'- SUBSTITUTION

#1. Kavakava MANUMUA  replaced by #21. Kinikini KAU for Tonga

-- 2 minutes time added on --

90'+2- Referee Job Ponis MINAN blows for fulltime and it is Vanuatu who progress to the semi-finals and Tonga who bid farewell to Apia, Samoa.

 

FULL TIME: TON 1 VAN 4

 

MATCH PHOTOS:

XIII SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES – SAMOA 2007

Men’s Group B

Match Day 5 – 1230 – 3 September 2007

Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Football Fields – Apia – Samoa

 

 

TONGA: 1. Kavakava MANUMEA (21. Kinikini KAU 90'+2); 4. Folio MOEAKI; 5. Matana PAONGO (19. Lisaniasi KAINGA 36'); 6. Pio PALU; 7. Sione Vea TAHITUA (16. Sione TOVO 65'); 8. Kamaliele PAPANI; 9. Ilalio LEAKONA; 11. Malakai SAVIETI; 12. Lafaele MOALA; 14. Kaisani UHATAHI; 17. Semisi TUIFANGALAOKA.

Coach: Kilifi UELE

Substitutes not used: 3. Kava HUIHAHAU; 10. Unaloto FEAO; 13. Mark UTATAHI; 15. Tevita TAKAI; 18. Kaliopasi UELE; 20. Kaneti FELELA [gk].

Injured:

Suspended: None.

Not available: 2. Sione Ongoi UHATAHI.

Cautions: 8. Kamaliele PAPANI (30').

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 11. Malakai SAVIETI (50').

VANUATU: 20. Chikau MANSALE [gk]; 3. Ken MASAUVAKALO; 4. Rexley TARIVUTI; 5. Andrew CHICHIRUA; 6. Fedy VAVA; 7. Moise POIDA; 8. Tom Philip TOMAKE (19. Derek MALAS 46'); 10. Seule SOROMON (15. Victor MALEB 75'); 12. Fenedy MASAUVAKALO; 13. Francois SAKAMA; 21. Maki HAITONG (16. Richard IWAI 62').

Coach: Robert CALVO

Substitutes not used: 1. David CHILIA [gk]; 2. Samson OBED; 9. Jean Nako NAPRAPOL; 11. Etienne MERMER; 17. Geoffrey Lego GETE; 18. Jacques MAFIL NAWAN.

Injured: 14. Pita David MAKI.

Suspended:

Not available:

Cautions:

Red cards:

Goal scorers: 10. Seule SOROMON (24', 34', 41'); 15. Victor MALEB (76').

Referee: Job Ponis MINAN (PNG)

Assistant Referee: Rohitesh DAYAL (FIJ)

Assistant Referee: Hilary ANI (PNG)

Fourth Official: Rodney ALLEN (AUS)