MARIST FC coach Jerry Allen insists the quarter-finals draw for the OFC Champions League sets a good pathway for his team in the Oceania international premier club competition.
OFC made the draw at their Auckland headquarter on Monday as Marist was tied up to take on debutants Nalkutan FC away in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
Speaking to Star Sports exclusively on Tuesday, Jerry Allen said its a good draw for his team.
“I saw the official draw yesterday (Monday) and it is a favourable draw for us.
“I think we have a chance to make it to the semi-finals or even the grand final if we do well in our knockout games,” he said.
When asked on their last eight opponents Nalkutan FC, Jerry said they are a good side despite making their first appearance in the OFC Champions League this year.
“Nalkutan are a good team because they have a mixture of Ni-Vanuatu players and some of our top Solomon Islands footballers like Naka, Sale and Nawo in their ranks.
“They top their group at home but we will continue working hard towards the crucial encounter with them in Port Vila come April,” Allen stated.
He added the team won’t rest on their laurels as they continue their training ahead of the quarter-final clash with Nalkutan and the TSL championship series this weekend.
Like Jerry, Solomon Warriors coach Moses Toata said the draw present a robust charge for his side.
“I think the draw gives us a difficult fixture against the regaining Oceania champions.
“I believe we have some chance but for now we need to work tirelessly on our conditioning before the clash with Auckland City,” Toata said.
Solomon Warriors are also looking forward to use the TSL championship as build-up towards the OFC Champions League quarter-finals next month.
By SIMON ABANA
