With supporters at Vodafone Arena in full voice, the Solomon Islands Kurukuru remain unbeaten, securing a clinical 5-2 victory over hosts Fiji.
From the opening whistle, the Kurukuru dominated possession, with Owen Bunabo and Alvin Hou spearheading waves of attacks. Both players unleashed several shots at Fiji captain Kitione Baleloa, who was resilient throughout the early exchanges.
Baleloa produced a string of excellent saves to deny multiple long-range efforts, but the persistent pressure eventually told as Jayroll Patty’s clinical finish gave the Solomon Islands the lead.
The attacking intensity continued, with Calvin Do’oro adding twice – first with a powerful strike that beat the keeper, and then again following a well-worked set piece – as Dickson Kadau’s side asserted their control over the match.
Fiji showed flashes of threat on the counter, but the Solomon Islands’ defence remained solid, keeping them at bay. Backed by a seemingly home crowd on Fiji soil, the Kurukuru side looked in full control heading into halftime.
The second half saw Fiji start with purpose, creating chances in promising positions, but Solomon Islands’ organisation and composure disrupted their rhythm. The Kurukuru soon regained their attacking momentum, with Owen Bunabo pouncing on a rebound to make it four, followed by Alvin Hou adding a fifth after a defensive lapse from Fiji.
In the closing minutes, Fiji struck twice, with Nikil Chand converting a precise pass from Filipe Baravilala, who later found the net himself to give the hosts a late flourish.
Solomon Islands claimed another impressive win and will aim to carry their momentum into tomorrow’s clash with Vanuatu, while Fiji look to regroup ahead of their next match against Tuvalu.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
Solomon Islands: 5 (Jayroll PATTY, Calvin DO’ORO (2), Owen BUNABO, Alvin HOU)
Fiji: 2 (Nikil CHAND, Filipe BARAVILALA)
HT: 3-0