TWO goals in six minutes lifted the Bula Boys to a 2–0 victory over Papua New Guinea in the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup at HFC Bank Stadium on Sunday night.
Captain Roy Krishna broke the deadlock from the penalty spot in the 18th minute before Sterling Vasconcellos struck again six minutes later, giving Fiji a two-goal cushion they carried into halftime.
Fiji kept PNG scoreless after the break to secure three points and register a much-improved performance.
Head coach Stephane Auvray said he was pleased with what his players produced on the night.
“I’m happy with what was done tonight. It was important for us to play like we know how to do,” he said.
The early goals gave Fiji control, while the defence held firm as PNG failed to find a way back into the contest.
Auvray said the team still had room to improve, particularly in front of goal after creating further opportunities during the match.
“Scoring the chances. Otherwise, building on what we did tonight. Do the same thing, but better,” he said.
The coach said Fiji could have settled the match earlier had more of its opportunities been converted.
The victory also provides Fiji with three points as the tournament moves towards its final round of matches.
Auvray said the side would look to carry the performance into its next outing while continuing to improve.
He also thanked the supporters who backed the Bula Boys from the stands and those watching from home.
“There’s a long way to go, but hopefully you see the progress,” he said.
Fiji now turns its attention to New Caledonia, with the Bula Boys scheduled to face them at 7pm tomorrow in their final match of the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup.
