The Solomon Islands international had been rumoured to be set for a return to former club Waitakere United, where he was a major hit and carved out a reputation as one of the best frontmen in Oceania, but has eased the fears of Koloale’s fanatical fans by putting pen to paper on a new deal.
Totori’s signature is the latest in a raft of signings by coach Peter Eke as he looks to improve on the squad that missed out on a place in last season’s final by just a point.
Joses Nawo has also signed on again and will be joined by fellow national team winger James Naka, who arrives from Fiji club Rewa.
The pair both caught the eye as the Bonitos made it to the final of the XIV Pacific Games in New Caledonia during August and September and, in teaming up with Totori, they will create one of the most potent attacking combinations in the O-League.
Eke has also added young striker Benjamin Baeoro to the mix and strengthened the midfield by recruiting former Solomon Warriors duo Willy Daudau and Molis Gagame Jnr.
Vice-President Timothy Aruafu is delighted with the quality of the squad assembled and is confident of a strong showing in the upcoming O-League, the Pacific’s premier club competition.
“A lot of hard work has been expended to recruit the players the club wanted and we are pleased to have got everybody on our shopping list,” he says.
Aruafu admits Totori was the primary target and is relieved the 25-year-old has decided to stay put.
“Totori is a key part of our team and we believe he will help us to get the results we want in the coming season.”
At the heart of Koloale’s recruitment drive was the club’s ambition to chase titles on two fronts, the O-League and the domestic S-League national championship.
“Our transfer strategy is in line with our goals for the season and our coaching team will now take over the responsibility of getting results with our line-up. Our primary aim, of course, is to win the national title again but beyond that we are looking at the O-League title as well,” Aruafu says.
“We have the right players and the right management and we will take each game that we play seriously. If it all goes well we may just have an even greater season than our last.”
Koloale’s new stars have already gotten off to a good start, helping the team to a resounding 6-0 victory over Kossa in a friendly match as the build-up to the S-League and O-League competitions continues.
Eke’s men have been handed a tough beginning to the O-League, welcoming defending champions Auckland City to Lawson Tama Stadium on October 29.
For more on Solomon Islands football go to www.siff.com.sb

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