The hosts came away with a 6–5 win against the young Kurukuru side despite the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) defending champions at one early stage leading their hosts by three goals.
Kurukuru team manager Mapuru Tausinga reported that the game was played with high intensity throughout, describing the pace of the match as “frantic.”
It was the Kurukuru who came out with all guns blazing as captain Elliot Ragomo netted his first and then quickly added a second. Jack Wetney added his name to the scorer’s sheet as the touring team leapt out to a 3-0 lead.
But Libya quickly adjusted their tactics and with some clever play drew level. Despite a further two goals to Solomon Islands players Micah Lea’alafa and Jenan Kapu, Libya were able to gain the lead 6-5.
As the game neared its conclusion the Libyan goal keeper made a string of excellent saves to keep his team one goal ahead in the dying minutes.
Despite the loss, Mapuru Tausinga was delighted that his young team had played at the high standard expected of them.
“When we arrived many people here had no idea where the Solomon Islands are. But now I believe they will want to find out,’ Tausinga said.
“The boys, especially Elliot Ragomo and Jack Wetney, made a big impression on the crowd with their skills.”
On day two of the tournament the Kurukuru struggled to back-up their opening day form and were soundly beaten 11-1 by Uruguay.
Courtesy of SIFF Media