Caption| Gagame Feni mark his Warriors return with a lone goal in the first leg of the national playoff . Photo: SIFF Media
Solomon Warriors emerged victorious in the first leg of the OFC Champions League – National Playoff, defeating Central Coast 1-0 at the National Stadium in Honiara.
The Telekom S-League champions took control of the game early on and scored a penalty in the fifth minute through their star striker Gagame Feni. Central Coast made several attempts to level the game, but they missed some good chances.
Charlie Otainao headed wide from a free kick, and Bobby Leslie was a constant threat with his pace and energy. However, Solomon Warriors defense remained steadfast, keeping the opposition at bay.
In the second half, Emmanuel Poila was shown a red card after an off-the-ball clash with Bobby Leslie. Referee Gideon Mamuala had no hesitation in sending him off, leaving Solomon Warriors with ten men and a lot of time to play.
Despite this setback, Central Coast was unable to capitalize on their numerical superiority. Junior Fordney and Hudyn Irodao came off the bench and tested the keeper, but Timothy Maearasia was up to the task.
The game got heated in the final minutes, as Solomon Warriors felt aggrieved by some of the referee’s decisions. They were also under pressure from Central Coast, who came close to equalizing when Bobby Leslie hit the crossbar with a brilliant shot.
The warriors defended bravely and kept their lead. Six minutes of added time gave Central Coast more hope, but Solomon Warriors remained resilient and secured a hard-fought win, knowing they have one foot in the next round of the OFC Men’s Champions League.
-SIFF Media
