Solomon Islands’ youngster Paul Awa starts the season in great form in New Zealand

Paul Awa, a promising young striker from the Solomon Islands, is making headlines in Palmerston North, New Zealand. Playing for Palmerston North Marist (PN Marist) in the Central Federation League, Awa has been in scintillating form since joining the team in 2023. The 21-year-old former Central Coast FC player from Solomon Islands has quickly become a key figure in his new club.

In the current season, Awa has played five games, delivering an impressive performance with four goals and three assists. His contribution has been crucial to PN Marist’s campaign, showcasing his ability to both score and create opportunities for his teammates. This blend of goal-scoring prowess and playmaking ability highlights his versatility and importance to the team.

Awa’s journey from the Solomon Islands to New Zealand represents a significant step in his footballing career. His success in adapting to a new environment and maintaining high performance levels speaks volumes about his talent and potential. At just 21 years of age, Awa is displaying the qualities that could see him make an even bigger impact in the future.

Paul Awa

The young striker’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. His performances are generating excitement and hope among fans back home in the Solomon Islands. Many believe that if he continues on this path, he will undoubtedly attract attention from higher-tier clubs, potentially paving the way for opportunities in more competitive leagues.

Paul Awa’s story is an inspiring one for young footballers in the Solomon Islands. His current form and dedication to improving his game are setting a positive example, demonstrating that talent combined with hard work can lead to significant progress and success.

As Awa continues to thrive in the Central Federation League, the future looks bright for this talented Solomon Islander. His journey so far is being tough but the potential is there, and many are eagerly watching to see where his career will take him next. With his current trajectory, Awa is well on his way to achieving greater heights in the region.

Brian Kaltak shines as Central Coast Mariners reach A-League Grand Final again

The Central Coast Mariners have secured their place in the A-League grand final for the second consecutive season, following a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Sydney FC in the second leg of their semifinal. This result, combined with a crucial 2-1 away victory in the first leg, ensured the Mariners’ progression to the championship decider.

Next weekend, the Mariners will face Melbourne Victory, who triumphed over Wellington Phoenix in the other semifinal. The grand final promises to be a thrilling climax to the most prestigious football league in Australia.

At the heart of the Mariners’ success is 30-year-old Vanuatu international Brian Kaltak. The central defender was instrumental in neutralizing Sydney FC’s spirited attacks, demonstrating his defensive prowess and composure under pressure. Kaltak’s performances have been a key factor in the Mariners’ ability to hold onto their slender aggregate lead and advance to the final. Kaltak even cleared a ball into the goalline, effort that later was ruled-out due offside in Sydney’s attack, but proved the players’ commitment and work rate.

Kaltak’s journey from the small village of Erakor in Vanuatu to the heights of the A-League is nothing short of inspirational. His achievements this season have not only been pivotal for the Mariners but have also served as a beacon of hope and pride for South Pacific islanders. His selection into the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) Team of the Season – also for the second season in a row – this week underscores his exceptional contributions on the field.

The Mariners have already celebrated a highly successful season, having clinched the Premier’s Plate — awarded to the team finishing first in the A-League’s regular season — and the AFC Cup. Now, they are poised to defend their A-League title, with Kaltak playing a central role in their quest for glory.

Brian Kaltak celebates with CCM fans after reaching the Grand Final – CCM Media

Kaltak’s rise through the ranks has been marked by determination and resilience. From his early days in Erakor to becoming a standout player in the A-League, he has consistently demonstrated his talent and leadership. His performances this season have been a testament to his hard work and dedication, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.

As the Mariners prepare for the grand final, the team will undoubtedly look to Kaltak for his defensive solidity and experience. His presence in the backline provides a sense of security and confidence, crucial for a team aiming to retain their championship status. The upcoming clash against Melbourne Victory promises to be a test of the Mariners’ mettle. With Kaltak anchoring the defense, the team will aim to replicate their success from the regular season and add yet another trophy to their impressive haul.

For Kaltak, the grand final is not just a culmination of a season’s hard work but also a milestone in a remarkable career that continues to inspire young footballers across the South Pacific. His achievements on the field serve as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished with dedication and passion, no matter where one starts.

As the anticipation builds for the A-League grand final, all eyes will be on Brian Kaltak and the Central Coast Mariners as they strive to retain their title and cement their legacy in Australian football history.

Auckland City demolishes Solomon Warriors to confirm first place in OFC Champions League’s Group A

Auckland City FC have cemented their place in the semi-finals of the OFC Men’s Champions League 2024 following a dominant 5-0 victory over Solomon Warriors FC at Stade Paea. The win ensures the defending champions progress confidently into the next stage of the tournament.

Dylan Manickum was the standout performer for Auckland City, netting a hat-trick to spearhead the team’s emphatic win. The Solomon Warriors, already facing elimination after losing their previous matches, put up a valiant effort, particularly in a tightly contested first half.

The match began with Solomon Warriors’ forward Gagame Feni taking the first shot on goal, though his attempt from the edge of the box was easily saved by Auckland City’s goalkeeper, Conor Tracey. The first half saw few chances, as both teams struggled to break down each other’s defenses.

However, just before the halftime whistle, Dylan Manickum broke the deadlock. A shot from Stipe Ukich was parried by Solomon Warriors’ goalkeeper Timothy Maearasia, and Manickum was perfectly positioned to tap in the rebound, giving Auckland City a 1-0 lead at the break.

Auckland City came out stronger in the second half, and it took only five minutes for Manickum to double both his and his team’s tally. Substitute Tong Zhou capitalized on a loose ball in the box, setting up Manickum to stab home his second goal.

Manickum completed his hat-trick on the hour mark after Ukich was fouled in the box, confidently converting the resulting penalty to make it 3-0. Five minutes later, Ukich was fouled again in the penalty area. This time, he stepped up to take the penalty himself and slotted it into the corner, increasing the lead to 4-0.

Stipe Ukich celebrates his goal against Solomon Warriors – OFC Media

The onslaught continued as Auckland City showcased their class. With fifteen minutes remaining, substitute Ryan De Vries added the fifth goal. De Vries exhibited excellent footwork to carve out space in the box before cleverly placing his shot inside the near post, leaving Maearasia wrong-footed.

With this victory, Auckland City FC await the outcome of the remaining fixtures in Group B to learn who their semi-final opponent will be. Three of the four teams in that group are still vying for a spot in the final four, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the group stage.

Auckland City’s performance not only secures their semi-final berth but also sends a clear message to their competitors about their intent to retain the title.

Rewa secures OFC Champions League’s semifinal berth after comeback win over Hekari United

Rewa FC secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Hekari United FC, sealing their spot in the knockout stage of the 2024 OFC Men’s Champions League. The match, held on a cooler afternoon at Stade Paea in Tahiti, saw Rewa come from behind twice to clinch the win in the final minutes.

Both teams started cautiously, aware of the various scenarios that could determine their advancement to the semi-finals. Hekari United had the better chances in the first half-hour, with Ati Kepo and Rex Naime both failing to convert from promising positions, as their shots were easily saved by Rewa’s goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia.

Rewa FC gradually found their footing in the match. A key moment came when Epeli Valevou’s run down the left flank set up Samu Kautoga, whose deft shot floated over Hekari keeper Dave Tomare, giving Rewa the lead.

Facing the prospect of elimination, Hekari United came out strongly in the second half. They were awarded a penalty ten minutes in, which Joseph Joe calmly converted to level the score at 1-1. Seven minutes later, Solomon Rani capitalized on a defensive lapse to put Hekari ahead, slotting the ball past Sevanaia from close range.

Despite Hekari’s lead, they failed to secure the win as Rewa pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Veteran defender Samu Kautoga was instrumental, scoring his second goal of the tournament with a header at the back post, leveling the match once more with just over 15 minutes remaining.

Rewa players celebrate one of their goals – OFC Media

The game seemed destined for a draw until the dying moments. In the 95th minute, Rewa’s Tevita Waranaivalu capitalized on a defensive error by Hekari, driving a well-placed shot past the keeper to secure a 3-2 victory for his team.

With this hard-fought win, Rewa FC advances to the semi-finals, while Hekari United’s campaign ends at the group stage. Kautoga’s experienced presence and timely goals were crucial in Rewa’s triumph, highlighting his significant contribution to their success.

Epeli Valevou satisfied with Rewa’s performances as they head for final group match at OFC Champions League

Rewa started strong their campaign in the 2024 edition of the OFC Champions League; the current Fijian Champions started with a 2-2 draw against title holders Auckland City and one of the standout players upfront of the Delta Tigers talked to Oceania Football Center – Epeli Valevou. “I think we did well with keeping ball possession, but just lacked focus coming into the final third of the ground. I think we rushed things in the final thrid, but all in all was a good game displayed by the team“, said the former Tailevu Naitasiri man on his debut match in the competition.

“Even though conceding early in the game we had confidence that we would pull through our main goal: to secure the three points. We’ve managed to do just silly mistakes which made us conceding goals otherwise we did great as a team and managed to come through with the three points. Everyone understands their role in the game which did not make us panic. But after al I am happy with how we played against the Solomon Warriors“, said the 23-year-old forward on their second match, the 3-2 hard fought over the Solomon Islands representatives Solomon Warriors.

Valevu (left) in Rewa outfit – Fiji FA Media

As the team approaches its final and decisive game in the group, Valevou is confident and shares his thought on what his team and coach Rodick Singh have on mind for the crucial game ahead Hekari United from Papua New Guinea: “I think coming into the last pool game, we don’t want to rush things, but will have to minimize our mistakes from the back and keep more ball possession in our final third and finish off each chance as it comes“, said the speedy striker.

A draw is probrably enough for Rewa to advance to the semifinal stage as Hekari led by the local football legend David Muta will definitely need to win the encounter if they want to seal a spot in the knock-out stage of the tournament that is being held in Tahiti.

OFC Champions League: Brazilian Erick Joe ready to make history for Hekari United

Alongside Lucas Santos, the central defender Erick Joe makes the duo of Brazilian that recently joined Hekari United, the Papua New Guinean football powerhouse. While the midfielder is still make his debut for the team coached by David Muta, Joe is a steward in defence is one of the pillars of the team that is doing impressive in the OFC Champions League so far.

The player, that told Oceania Football Center is going to stay for the rest the local football season in Papua New Guinea with Hekari, left the first two matches of his new club in the regional tournament due injuries: “in the first match I got only cramps, but in the second match I got my ankle twisted when ball touched it at the bottom of the my foot“, said Joe to Oceania Football Center – “we have a very good phyisio in Hekari and I will be 100% to play the final group match”, he added.

Erick Joe in action for Hekari United – OFC Media

“I am sure that we are an excellent team, that our team understands very well what our cach David Muta passes on. I believe that we are playing very well and that with each game we are evolving more and I am sure that we will fight for the OCL title“, said Joe when asked about his thoughts on his team development. “In our opening game we played well, we managed to make a few mistakes before facing the strong Auckland City FC side, and against them we played an excellent game, we went up too, we had possession, but unfortunately in the last minute of the game, the lack of attention, we ended up conceding the goal“, he stated.

“It serves as a great experience for us. We plan to play Auckland City FC again in the final, so then we will have what it takes to beat them and emerge victorius“, he mentioned in the final of the interview. If Erick Joe and his teammates manage to do so and return to an OFC Champions League grand final, history will be made and certainly the Brazilian will be an asset to help Hekari to battle for their second ever title of the most important club football tournament in the region.

AS Pirae outclass struggling Ifira Black Bird in resounding victory at OFC Champions League

In a commanding performance, AS Pirae triumphed 5-1 over Ifira Black Bird in their OFC Champions League 2024 opener in Tahiti. Despite a valiant effort from the Vanuatu side, travel disruptions and a thin squad saw them succumb to the dominant hosts. Pirae secured their place in the semifinals as they collected their second win in two matches.

Ifira Black Bird’s arrival in Tahiti was marred by delays, with the team landing just the evening before the match. Compounding their troubles, they only had twelve players available for the game. Nevertheless, the team showed remarkable resilience early on, launching quick counter-attacks against a high-pressing AS Pirae.

However, the home team took the lead with a spectacular long-range strike from Yohann Tihoni, who fired a 25-yard shot into the top corner past Dick Sablan. The Tahitians quickly capitalized on their momentum, adding a second goal just four minutes later. Désiré Ngiamba’s shot from outside the box took a fortunate deflection leaving Sablan with no chance.

Ifira Black Bird, undeterred by the early setbacks, found a way back into the match. Kerry Iawak seized on a loose ball after a probing run from Johnathan SpokeyJack and smashed it into the near post to reduce the deficit. SpokeyJack nearly equalized shortly before halftime, but his powerful shot rattled the crossbar.

AS Pirae started the second half with renewed energy and restored their two-goal cushion when Sandro Tau’s cross found Ariiura Labaste, who tapped in from close range. Labaste doubled his tally in the 63rd minute with a well-placed shot through a crowded penalty area, effectively putting the game beyond Ifira’s reach.

The toll of travel and limited squad options began to show for Ifira as the match progressed. AS Pirae added a fifth goal when Sandro Tau headed in from close range following a clever assist from Heirauarii Salem. Any hopes of a comeback for Ifira were dashed when goalscorer Iawak was shown a straight red card for a reckless tackle in the 77th minute.

Heimano Bourebare (left) and John Wohale (right) battle for the ball – OFC Media

AS Pirae’s victory, their second in the tournament, propels them to the top of Group B, virtually securing a spot in the semi-finals. For Ifira Black Bird, the arrival of the remainder of their squad offers hope for better results in their upcoming match against Samoa’s Vaivase-tai FC.

Despite the defeat, the spirit of Ifira Black Bird shone through. The team wore black ribbons on their left arms in solidarity with their Melanesian brothers and sisters in New Caledonia due the complicated political situation in the country at the moment. The lone goal for Ifira Black Bird was a moment of pride for the team and their supporters, that despite their setbacks they were able to give some fight to the hosts.

In the face of adversity, Ifira Black Bird demonstrated courage and determination, promising to bounce back with the arrival of their full squad expected to happen very soon. The next match will be crucial for their chances in the tournament, and they remain hopeful of making a significant impact.

Brian Kaltak earns spot in PFA “Team of the Year” for second consecutive season in A-League

Brian Kaltak, the 30-year-old central defender from Vanuatu and standout player for the Central Coast Mariners, has once again been honored with a spot in the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) “Team of the Year”. This marks the second consecutive season that Kaltak has received this accolade, proving his exceptional performances and consistent contributions on the field.

Kaltak has been a key figure for the Mariners, whose stellar season saw them clinch both the Premier’s Plate and the AFC Cup. His solid defensive skills have been instrumental in the team’s success, providing a reliable backbone that has allowed the Mariners to dominate their competitions.

Under Kaltak’s leadership, the Mariners have excelled, not only securing top honors but also establishing themselves as strong contenders for retaining the A-League title. His ability to read the game, coupled with his physical presence has made him an indispensable part of the team.

Kaltak’s recognition by the PFA underscores his impact and value – a proof that there’s a lot of talent to be developed in South Pacific Islands. The votes were given by A-League players – as the Professional Footballers Australia is the union of the local players in the country – and awarded the Vanuatu national team captain again.

As the Mariners look ahead for A-League play-offs, aiming to defend their A-League title, Kaltak’s presence will be crucial. His experience, coupled with his proven track record of excellence, provides the team with a solid foundation upon which to build further successes.

Brian Kaltak’s repeated inclusion in the PFA “Team of the Year” highlights his significant achievements and contributions to Australian football. As he continues to lead by example, his influence on the Mariners and the league as a whole remains profoundly positive.

OFC Champions League: Ifira Black Bird will have only 12 players available for their debut match against AS Pirae

Ifira Black Bird Football Club, Vanuatu’s national champions, is facing significant challenges as they prepare for their opening match in the OFC Champions League against Tahiti’s AS Pirae. The match is scheduled for Friday, May 17, 2024, at 2:45 PM Vanuatu time. Despite their determination, logistical hurdles have severely impacted their preparations and squad availability.

The club’s management announced that all 19 players and two coaches initially arrived in New Zealand. However, due to limited flight availability from New Zealand to Tahiti, only seven players and Head Coach Robert Yalou could proceed to Tahiti, arriving on Wednesday, May 15, at 11 PM Tahiti time – some of the players that just reached Tahitian soil are key for Ifira as the striker Jonathan Spokeyjack, the midfielder John Wohale and the defender Samuel Kaloros. Five eligible players who were already in Tahiti will join them, bringing the total to 12 players, including one substitute, available for the crucial first group match.

The remaining 12 players and the assistant coach are currently stranded at the OFC Academy in New Zealand, awaiting the next available flight to Tahiti. This situation arose following the cancellation of Air Vanuatu flights, a setback that was beyond the club’s control.

The Ifira Black Bird team, known for their strong performance last year when they reached the semifinals of the OFC Champions League, now faces a daunting task with a significantly depleted squad. The reduction in available players is a severe blow to their campaign this year, raising concerns about their ability to compete effectively against strong opponents like AS Pirae.

Ifira BB players reaching Tahitian soil – IBB Media

Despite these challenges, the team’s spirits remain high. Coach Robert Yalou and his players are focused and determined to give their best performance under the circumstances. The club’s management has expressed their gratitude for the support from fans and families back home in Vanuatu, acknowledging the difficult journey but emphasizing their commitment to representing their nation with pride.

The logistical complications and the resulting impact on the team’s readiness highlight the broader issues facing clubs from smaller nations in international competitions. Travel constraints and resource limitations often put them at a disadvantage, underscoring the need for more robust support systems to ensure fair competition.

“Peace mon Pays”: Germain Haewegene shines for AS Magenta and dedicates his goals to his country

🇫🇷 Français

AS Magenta made a significant impression with an 8-0 victory against Vaivase-Tai FC in their first match of the OFC Champions League. This resounding win was largely due to the incredible performance of Germain Haewegene, who scored five of his team’s eight goals (9′, 12′, 37′, 45′, 48′). This match will be remembered not only for the score but also for Haewegene’s poignant message.

After scoring his first goal, Haewegene celebrated by raising his arms to the sky and shouting “Peace my country,” showing a shirt with the words mentioned writen – a symbolic gesture in support of his homeland, New Caledonia, currently troubled by political tensions and violence. This message of peace and hope resonated deeply with spectators and fans.

Off the field, the situation in New Caledonia is concerning. The French government has declared a state of emergency after three days of deadly violence between protesters, militias, and police in the capital, Nouméa. At least four people have died in these clashes, the worst since the 1980s. Authorities have imposed a curfew, closed the main airport, and banned public gatherings, carrying weapons, and selling alcohol.

Germain Haewegene celebrates in fashion – OFC Media

Political tensions, simmering for years, erupted following a proposed constitutional change in the French parliament, aimed at granting more voting rights to French residents of the archipelago. This decision, seen as an attempt by Paris to consolidate its control, has been overwhelmingly rejected by the largely pro-independence indigenous Kanak communities, exacerbating divisions between supporters and opponents of independence.

On the field, the performances of Haewegene and his teammates provided a moment of respite and pride for AS Magenta supporters – the club is the current Super Ligue title holders. Besides Haewegene, Gilbert Kugogne contributed to the victory with a double (51′, 63′), while Louis Brunet sealed the score in the 87th minute.

Haewegene’s declaration “Peace my country” reminded everyone that football can be a vehicle for peace and unity, even in the most difficult times. Despite the turmoil, AS Magenta and its players show that hope and solidarity can prevail.