Solomon Islands put Young Matildas through their paces

The Australia’s Under 20’s Women’s team narrowly defeated the senior Solomon Islands team 2-1 in their first match of the Pacific Four Nations Tournament.

Despite the Young Matildas dominating possession, the win didn’t come easy as they fought to find looks through the visitor’s persistent defence.

Avaani Prankash opened the scoring for Australia in the 11^th minute, while Ella O’Grady delivered another just after the break in the 47^th minute.

However, it was Jemina David’s equaliser that stole the show for the Solomon Islands.

After struggling to get the ball down their end during much of the first half, David managed to slot one in to level the match right before the break.

As it’s the first time many of the Solomon Island athletes have played in Australia, David said post-match that it was a great achievement for her country.

“I didn’t expect to score that goal from that corner. Scoring the goal I’m so happy and proud,” David said.

After going up against the pressing Young Matildas side, the Solomon Islands are eager to back up their performance in the remaining games.

Head coach Batram Suri said that he was happy with the result and put it down to their settled defence and persisted efforts.

“I think the girls have a strong mentality,” Suri said.

“Even though they lose the ball, we have a number inside the box to clear the ball out.”

Despite losing the match, his team’s performance is a good sign for Suri with games still to be played against Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

“I think it’s a start for us,” he said.

“I believe that if we did like this defensively, going forward with the other two teams we can do it.”

(Feature image: PacificAus Sports).