Solomon Islands national U-23 coach Batram Suri is pleased with the fighting spirit his boys displayed against New Zealand despite a 4-2 defeat at the OFC Men’s Olympic Qualifiers Group B decider at ANZ Stadium in Suva, Fiji.
“I think the boys played their hearts out against a very well prepared New Zealand team,” he said.
“I would like to give credit to the boys for giving a good challenge despite the result.
“I told the boys it’s a taste of character whether you still compete with New Zealand who has more experience in their preparation for this competition.
“So, I am happy with the boys’ performances against New Zealand.”
The Solympics took an early lead 35 seconds into the first minute as Patrick Taroga pounced on a mistake from the New Zealand keeper.
Solomon Islands should have scored a second as Augustine Waita spurned a golden opportunity in 35 minutes.
New Zealand scored two quick goals inside two minutes to turn the game on its head.
The Ollie Whites extended their lead in the 52 minute courtesy of a headed goal from Noah Billingsley.
The Solomon Islands came back strong in the last 20 minutes to pull a goal back from a stunning goal by Tuita Maeobia.
As the Solympics pour forward for an equalizer, New Zealand leading goal scorer Myer Bevan scored a fourth in the 90+2 minute of the added time to put the icing on the cake.
