Marist FC and Western United have secured spots at the 2017 OFC Champions League after placing first and second respectively in the Solomon Islands 2016 Telekom S-League.
Marist FC had already secured the top spot last Thursday after a 4-1 victory over Real Kakamora FC left them on 37 points, five higher than second-placed Western United.
Ruben Douglas opened the scoring for Marist FC in the ninth minute before extending their lead less than ten minutes later. Solomon Islands youth international Atkin Kaua then extended the lead to three just before the break. A tighter second half saw a goal from Real Kakamora FC’s Paul Hiri shrink the goal margin before it was countered by a fourth goal for Marist FC from Papua New Guinea defender Koriak Upaiga in the 70th minute.
Marist FC assistant coach Jerry Allen was proud of the side for winning the league and said it was a great achievement for the club.
“Firstly I would like to thank Marist management and the players including our Papua New Guinea import players,’’ he said.
“Our mission is now complete. In fact we have made big history for our club.”
Western United secured their place in the 2017 OFC Champions League after a 3-3 draw with KOSSA FC brought them up to 32 points.
For more on Solomon Islands football visit www.siff.com.sb.