OFC Women’s Nations Cup

Solomon Islands finish third at Women’s Nations Cup after Samoa’s penalty heartache

First-half goals from Samoa captain Monique Fischer and Solomons striker Jemima David meant the sides could not be separated in normal time, with the Solomon Islands winning the shootout in sudden death.

Samoa looked the more threatening early on, Monique Fischer testing Solomon Islands goalkeeper Sylvester Maenu’u.

Sariah Taeaoalii’s electric pace was causing the Solomons trouble and resulted in two great opportunities. Unfortunately for Samoa the pacey forward could only place her attempts wide of the mark.

Pacific Games rematch could decide a semi-finalist

But all eyes will be on the rematch of the 2011 and 2015 Pacific Games final which has seen Papua New Guinea twice edge their opponents New Caledonia for the gold medal.

The final which hurt the most was the 2011 edition which was played in New Caledonia, and while the bid for revenge in 2015 was unsuccessful, captain Celine Xolawawa remains optimistic about her side’s chances this time around.