SFSF, Apia: Sogi still remains undefeated in Samoa’s GM Bakery Cup after a 1-0 victory over Lupe ole Soaga on the weekend.
In a hotly contested game, Sogi sealed victory with an early penalty by central defender Iupele Ioane, after Ben Timo was unceremoniously upended by the Lupe keeper.
On a day when little quality football was played, there was nevertheless plenty of excitement for the crowd as both teams contested every ball, which led to an end to end encounter. Both keepers were called into action on many occasions but ultimately it was the penalty that decided the issue as both sides failed to capitalise on other clear chances.
In other GM Bakery Cup action, a revitalised Lepea cruised to a 4-0 victory over rivals Moataa and look to have found rediscovered some of the form that made them National League Champions last year.
First time premiership contenders Hosanna were back in the fray this week but lost out to Kiwi 2-1, who had Joseph Hoeflich bagging a brace to nick the win – a pleasing response from the young Hoeflich having missed out on national selection last week.
Central and Moamoa looked a good game on paper despite National team call-ups for both sides. The Central side showed more signs that they are not adapting to life in the premier league and went down 1-0. A disappointing result for them as they do have the players but performing on the day is a problem.
The Manumea Samoa training squad kicked off the day against Vaivase-tai and demolished the visitors with a 9-0 hiding. Not that National Coach David Brand was too impressed. “A win is a win but whilst I understand the quality of the opposition was extremely ordinary we have to learn to continue to play to our potential,” he said after the game.
“At least now we can start to build a more settled side and wholesale changes are not the order of the day, although squad rotation is going to be vital to maintain match fitness prior to leaving for New Zealand late this month.”
In the Ladies Cup, a battle royal was forecast and both teams did not disappoint the crowd. Kiwi took on the undefeated Central but maintained the trophy thanks to a late penalty winner from Talele Saaga. Kiwi has accounted for all challengers in recent weeks but the younger Central side posed a different threat. A crucial miss from Marylynn Williams at the penalty spot was followed by a left foot shot hitting the post with only the keeper to beat.
Teenagers Luisa Tagomoa and Ruby Folau were towers of strength at the back for their respective teams as all players gave 100% to try to seal victory. In the end Kiwi got home with smiles on their faces but they know it was only by the skin of their teeth. Well done both teams.
For more information from Samoan soccer visit their official website at www.soccersamoa.ws which is also linked to the OFC website.