Jerry Allen excited
By Taromane Martin
MARIST FC Head Coach Jerry Allen says he is excited after his side qualified for the semi-finals of the Oceania Champions League.
Marist defeated Nalkutan FC 2-1 in their quarterfinal match at the Korman Stadium in Port Villa on Saturday.
Goals from Abraham Iniga in the 25th minute and another by Davidson Tome in additional time of the first half were enough to secure Marist a spot for their first semi-final appearance in the competition.
Coach Allen credited his boys for their execution saying it was spot on both defensively and offensively.
“I am really excited. We were here to win, obviously everyone is, but I’m excited we did it,” Marist coach Jerry Allen said.
“I think I should say thank you to all the players, everyone, especially in the second half. There was a bit of pressure coming but we stuck to the plan and defended well.”
Nalkutan FC Head Coach Moise Poida said the biggest downfall for his side was underestimating their opponents.
“We did not follow the plan. If you see the game, the goals conceded they weren’t concentrating on the game, on marking, there wasn’t enough communication.
“We came here with a high expectation of winning this game but we were punished in the first half.
“It was a 50-50 chance for us, but we were lacking physically, lacking experience but I think ultimately we underestimated this Marist team,” he said.
Meanwhile Marist FC Team Captain Henry Fa’arodo was also pleased with the result thanking God for the glory, honour and victory on Saturday.
“As one door closes, another opens. I am so proud of my boys today, who played like men. This is how it feels when you push yourself to the limit. Thank you lord for the victory. All honour and glory to you,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
That victory for Marist also means football fans in Honiara will once more get the opportunity to witness actions from the 2018 OFC Champions League again when Marist plays Benjamin Totori and Lautoka FC in their home and away semi-finals clash.
