Fiji edge hosts 5-4, before 30-0 drubbing of Tonga

 FANS were given a sneak preview of what could be the gold medal play-off when a spirited Fiji held out PNG women 5-4 in five-a-side hockey on day two of the Pacific Games competition at the new hockey pitch at BSP Stadium yesterday. 

In other interesting news that came late last night, Vanuatu men’s team upset PNG 8-6 while Fiji posted yet another high score (30-0) against newcomer Tonga in the early game.

The women’s match was evenly contested until Fiji used their fitness to score the winning goal in the 44th minute to seal the match. 

Fiji and PNG were traditional rivals since the women competition was included in 2003 Pacific Games.

Fiji coach Alison Southey said she was pleased with the result as Fiji expect tough match from PNG. “I forewarned the girls that they are playing at home soil, and they will come stronger in the match, but winning by one point is enough for a well-deserved win,” she said.

Fiji has so far won two matches against Tonga on Day 1 and today (yesterday) against host PNG to put them in front as medal contenders.

Gold medal hopeful Fiji were first on the scoreboard through Catherine Thaggard 12th minute into the game and a minute later, PNG replied through Caroline Mulina to level the score at one-all.

At the second period, Fiji started to dominate the game by keeping the ball in PNG’s territory. Tailah Ahyuk extended the shaky lead 2-1 before Jessica Kevan level the score for the second time 2-2. Fiji women team scored again through Lala Ravatu for a 3-2 lead before PNG captain Terry Kiapin equalised with the first goal in the final half for a 3-all score line.

The visitors kept on mounting pressure on the local girls to score two quick goals within a space of three minutes through lanky Tiara Dutta and Lala Ravatu before Jessican Kevan scored the consolation.