THE Solomon Islands women’s team is hoping to improve their performance and results, as they prepare for the upcoming Women’s Olympic Football Tournament – Oceania Qualifiers, in Samoa from 7-19 February.
Despite a group stage exit as host at the Sol2023 Pacific Games in Honiara, the Batram Suri-led side is optimistic about turning things around, having been grouped alongside XVII Pacific Games finalists Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Fiji, as well as American Samoa in Group A.
Suri prepared a 33-strong squad in the build-up and finalised her 23 strong squad who will travel to Apia, this week.
“We are very much looking forward to the qualifiers, though it’s a short time to get the girls back together after the Pacific Games and the festive break. We are putting in a team effort as much as possible to be ready for the challenge ahead.” Suri told SIFF Media.
“I’m confident we can do better than our previous campaign at the games. Although we a grouped in a tough group, I still have the hope we can do better this time.” Suri added.
Player to Watch
23-year-old forward Almah Gogoni (pictured above) was impressive at the XVII Pacific Games, scoring the fastest goal of the competition against Fiji. She will be a threat in attack with her quick feet.
Confirmed Squad
Goalkeepers
Margaret Kofela – RSIPF Royals
Sylvester Maenu’u – Koloale FC
Joan Hanigaro – Ha’arosia FC
Defenders
Edith Nari – Henderson Eels FC
Lisa Solo – Koloale FC
Kalinsha Fiua – Henderson Eels FC
Jacklyn Ikama – Naha FC
Rashida Mekawir – Naha FC
Sheroly Saeni – RSIPF Royals
Claudia Votu – Haura FC
Ivy Sade – Haura FC
Midfielders
Mesalyn Saepio – Koloale FC
Alisha Donga – RSIPF Royals
Sandy Tahira – Henderson Eels FC
Veronica Tolivaka – Henderson Eels FC
Bridget Alele – Naha FC
Mary Maefiti – Henderson Eels FC
Almah Gogoni – Naha FC
Gertrude Oritaimae – Henderson Eels FC
Madeline Arukau – Henderson Eels FC
Forwards
Ileen Pegi (C) – Koloale FC
Lorina Solosaea – Frigates United FC
Jemina David – Frigates United FC
[Note: Words – Peter Zoleveke]
