Tourney Debutants win first ever OPC victory
Vanuatu 5: Samoa 0
The 2nd match of Day 5 was between Vanuatu and Samoa. Made up of young inexperienced players, both sides were still looking for their first victory, having lost to all the other teams. With this being the debut year for the Vanuatu side, and Samoa having a better goals difference, Samoa had a slight advantage.
But these stats did not matter to the Vanuatu side who took the early lead with a field goal to John Johnas just before the half-time break.
After the break Vanuatu did not let up, never giving Samoa a chance to strike back, as Vanuatu were able to score 4 more goals.
Vanuatu were able to come away with a crucial win in their last game, their first ever win in the OPC.
Onis Namu the captain of Vanuatu said that they were really excited and happy to win.
“After all we’ve been through in the first round of matches…which were tough, we’ve learnt from the past matches… and we really put our effort into it and we’re happy with the result.”
When asked about the 5-0 score, Namu said that last night their coach, Ross Fraser had asked them to make an aim for the game. Their aim was 4-0.
“Today we’ve gone over our aim, which is 5-0.”
Namu went on to say it was a start for Vanuatu hockey. “We’re climbing up the ladder.” They hope to be able to play on par with teams like Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
Goals: Vanuatu 5(John Johnas-31st; Bob Iawila- 38th, 40th; Onis Namu- 43rd; Nalpinie Iasi- 51st) Samoa 0
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