FIJI President XI women’s hockey team was beaten 3-0 by Japan under-18 in the final of the 2017 Oceania Challenge Cup yesterday.
The senior women’s team held Japan 0-0 in the first quarter but the visitors scored a goal to lead 1-0 at the end of the second quarter.
After the half time both teams showcased strong defence without scoring a goal in the third quarter, but the Fijian ladies couldn’t keep up with the Japan team’s speed scoring two goals in the last quarter.
Manager Myra Tora said the girls gave their all but the visitors came well prepared.
“It was unfortunate that some of the players couldn’t make it due to commitments, but the girls really played well,” she said.
“On the positive side they played well throughout the last few minutes of the game. The Japanese girls were fast in running and passing the ball and they followed their game plan well and that is one thing that we learnt.”
In the last quarter the Fijian girls were tired as they tried to keep up with their opponents.
Tora said one of the challenges they faced was many players were injured.
“We have players with knee injuries and are recovering and some come and play because of their love for the sport. We haven’t had much training together because of personal commitments and it is not easy, but apart from that the girls are trying their best. Hats off to the girls for a good outing throughout the week and now we shall enjoy the festive season and hope to make a comeback next season,” she said.
