Felipe: Clash with Roars Youth-side is good test for the team
NATIONAL men’s football team head coach Felipe Vega Arango says playing against the Brisbane Roars youth team is a good test as far as the team’s preparation for the World Cup Qualifiers is concerned.
Felipe said it helps his coaching staff to identify areas they need to work on and see where the level of fitness of the team lies.
The Spaniard admitted;
“Everything went well, level of football in Australia is higher than in Solomon, Brisbane Roar under 23 had several pro players playing and their intensity was high.
“For us it was a good test to see the team order and the fitness of the boys.
“I think we did well, we have a lot of new players and most players said that they have never played at that intensity and speed level.
“Of course for us was important to play, first time playing together and getting some game time which we really need it.
“We have several areas to improve and we need to keep working hard.
“We must be humble and keep working.
“Boys are focused and we all know that we need to keep working and learning,” Felipe told Star Sports yesterday.
Felipe said overall everything is positive and acknowledged SIFF and Brisbane Roar for organizing the game.
The national team played their first of three friendly matches on Thursday night.
Captain Micah Lea’alafa’s first half goal was the match winner.
The win is a mind booster for the team as the Brisbane Roar Youth is a combination of some senior players playing in the A-League and U23 players which is a professional side.
The team will take on Caboolture Sports of the Queensland Premier League today followed by the third and final match against Brisbane Strikers on March 8th.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
Newsroom, Honiara
