The Kurukuru, as the squad is otherwise known, have won the last three Oceania championships and are looking to make it four in a row with another title at this year’s event, set to take place in Suva from May 13 to 21.
There is much at stake as the winner will go on to represent Oceania at the FIFA Futsal World Cup in Thailand in 2012.
The 2011 Kurukuru line-up is similar to the one that clinched last year’s title in such fine style with wins against all their opponents, including a 21-2 victory over Tuvalu.
However, the squad is fully aware that this edition of the tournament may not be such smooth sailing. The likes of New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia have all begun their preparations and are very keen to steal the title away from the three-time winners and book themselves a spot in Thailand.
The two Kurukuru goalkeepers from last year’s campaign have both retained their places in the team, as have nine other players, including captain Elliot Ragomo and forwards Micah Lea’alafa and Jack Wetney, who are vital to the side’s attacking strength.
The only newcomer is Samuel Osifelo, who comes into the fold to replace Jenan Kapu. The latter has been struggling with injuries in recent months and is being rested so he can recover fully before returning to training.
Osifelo has not been part of the last three OFC championship-winning sides but his name is not entirely unfamiliar to Kurukuru fans. In 2008, he was among the players that earned the football-mad nation an appearance at its first FIFA Futsal World Cup so his ability and experience is not in question.
Paul Huia had been a concern for the Kurukuru management but he has overcome his injuries and is now fully fit to perform a key role for the team in preventing goals and launching counter-attacks.
Head coach Dickson Kadau is confident he has the right men to do the job in Suva but is aware of the threat posed by the Solomons’ rivals, particularly New Zealand and Tahiti, who have been working hard to mount a genuine challenge to the recent Kurukuru dominance.
“These boys have worked very hard and we are aware of the goals that we have and what we need to do to achieve them,” he says. “I know a certain amount of pressure will be on us but my players are experienced and I have full faith in them.
“This year will be tougher than the last two championships because it is the qualifiers and everyone wants to make it to the World Cup. Our job is to make sure we come out on top and we have prepared since last year towards this.”
Solomon Islands squad for OFC Futsal Championship
Elliot Ragomo (c), James Egeta, Jack Wetney, Micah Lea’alafa, Coleman Makau, Moffat Sikwa’ae, George Stevenson, Jeffery Bule, Lenson Bisili, Samuel Osifelo, David Lafai, Paul Huia.
Non-travelling reserves: Matthis Saru, Dickson Ramo, Stanley Puairana, Alick Lioka Jnr.
Team officials: Dickson Kadau, head coach; Jerry Sam, assistant coach; Mapuru Tausinga, team manager.
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