The Cup in coming home

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Solomon Islands won its first major silverware after a long while by beating New Caledonia in a decider Saturday to win the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Noumea.

After an unbeaten run in the competition, today’s clash with hosts New Caledonia was a decisive one and Solomon Islands also known as the Bonitos downed the French speaking New Caledonia in front of their own fans –dethroning PNG and will now bring the coveted MSG Cup home for the firs time in its new format.

A single goal by professional footballer Raphael Lea’i was proved to be the difference as the Felipe Vega-Arango and Stanley Waita coached side stormed to a historic victory.

Rafa as he is known was named the player of the tournament whilst keeper Philip Mango won the golden glove.

The Noumea triumph was seen by many as a springboard to a successful campaign at next month’s Pacific Games in Honiara.

There’s a huge expectation of Solomon Islands to win gold in the Pacific Games on its first home Pacific Games.

The winning of the MSG Cup is a good respite for Solomon Islands football after the Kurukuru surrendered its undisputed status as the kings of Oceania futsal in New Zealand recently.

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