Solomon Islands National Futsal Women’s team will play against Tonga on Tuesday in their second match of the OFC Futsal Women’s Nation’s Cup at the Friendship Hall in East Honiara.
The host side is well prepared ahead to take on Tongans in the first-ever OFC Futsal Women’s Nations Cup that kicks off on Saturday.
The Tongans will also look to secure a must win after they suffered a huge defeat in the hands of New Zealand in their opening match.
The Manu Tualau led side will expect to perform at a high note since they picked out on their analysis and structured game that Solomon Islands demonstrated yesterday against Tahiti.
During a pre-tournament press conference on Friday, coaches for Solomons Arthur Barko and Manu Tualau (Tonga) shared their confidences on their teams and they are looking forward to what the outcome from the Futsal court.
“This tournament is more than just about competition; it’s about promoting and encouraging the growth of women’s Futsal in our country,” Solomons head coach Barko stressed.
Barko highlighted the importance of community and family support, urging fans to come out in numbers to cheer for the home team.
“We want families and friends to rally behind our women’s team. We must create an atmosphere where they feel the backing of the nation,” he said.
He also expressed confidence in his team’s composition – in their ability to rise to the occasion.
“Our squad is a mixture of senior players and youth, and we have put a lot of effort into preparing them for this moment,” head coach Barko said.
Solomons lost to Tahiti on Sunday.
By RAYMOND HULANGA
Solomon Star, Honiara.
