The first two groups of the OFC Champions League are winding down but for Groups C and D the campaign is yet to begin.
For first-timers Marist FC everything is heading in the right direction for a strong debut.
“With each training we are improving and I think we are going in the right direction,” Brazilian coach Juliano Schmeling said.
Like many sides that take part in the region’s premier international club competition, Marist have brought in a few reinforcements to bolster their squad.
“Our team is new because we have players from overseas,” he said.
“We should have more friendly games to get used to playing together.”
The Brazilian trio Schemeling brought in were on hand for a friendly against fellow Champions League side Western United in which the domestic champions triumphed 3-2.
“I know the qualities they have and their history,” he said of the Brazilians.
“I know where they came from, they came from some big clubs in Brazil and I totally believe they can helps us.”
Marist’s most recent friendly on home soil was against a Honiara Select side in which the S-League champions triumphed 3-0.
Senior squad member Abraham Ingia got a hat-trick and although it was three unanswered goals, it wasn’t an easy win for Marist.
Marist have been drawn in Group D alongside Erakor Golden Star, AS Tefana and Rewa FC. They will being their OFC Champions League campaign against the Fijian runners-up in the opening Group D match on 11 March.