The Fiji under-16 men’s team showcased a dominant performance that turned into a 2-1 win against Tahiti in their first Group A match of the OFC U16 Men’s Championship yesterday.
Fiji faced Tahiti with determined force at the Lawson Tama Stadium, Honiara, in the Solomon Islands.
The team drew first blood with a goal from Arnav Chand in the 19th minute, made possible through a header set-up by teammate Jarryd Mario and timed well by Saula Muatini who delivered a through pass to Chand to score the goal.
The half-time score stood at 1-0 for Fiji.
After the break, Tahiti continued their hunt for an equaliser which was answered with a successful penalty kick by captain Kahi Morgant in the 59th minute.
Ten minutes later, Fiji extended their lead with a penalty kick by captain Maikah Dau.
Following yesterday’s win, the side faces the Cook Islands on Wednesday and Papua New Guinea on Saturday in their remaining group matches.