LAUTOKA –New Zealand, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands were all the big winners on Match Day One of the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament in Lautoka, Fiji.
New Zealand needed a 90th minute winner from Wellington Phoenix defender Steven Old to overcome Fiji in the first match of the day in front of 9000 spectators.
New Zealand took the lead after 33 minutes when midfielder Cole Peverley hit a long range shot past Fiji goalkeeper Benaminio from 30 metres.
Fiji were level in 40 minutes when Malakai Tiwa’s shot appeared to take a deflection off Steven Old leaving Oly-Whites goalkeeper Jacob Spoonley stranded.
In the second game Vanuatu cruised to a 4-0 victory over the Cook Islands in inclement weather to move second on goal difference in the standings.
Jeffry Nimanian scored two goals in the first half with Joseph Namariau and Tony Chillia completing a satisfying start to the tournament for Vanuatu.
Benjamin Totori scored a hat trick in the Solomon Islands 6-1 demolition of Papua New Guinea in the final match of the day.
Joachim Rande helped himself to two goals with the fleet-footed Joses Nawo also on target for an impressive Solomon Islands team.
Papua New Guinea scored a consolation goal through Mathias Apo.
For full match reviews please visit www.oceaniafootball.com
OFC TOURNAMENT MEDIA GUIDE
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