Fordney calls for strong home support as tough OFC Pro League battles loom in Honiara
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Kings FC midfielder Junior Fordney calls on Solomon Islands football fans to turn out in numbers and rally behind the team as they prepare for two crucial and potentially tough matches in the upcoming Round 4 of the OFC Pro League in Honiara.
Fordney made the call yesterday shortly after the team arrived home at Henderson International Airport, where they received a warm welcome from supporters, families, and representatives from sponsors including Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA), Solomon Airlines and Our Telekom.
The return created a celebratory atmosphere at the airport as players reunited with loved ones after spending the past three weeks competing in the opening rounds of the regional competition overseas.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival, Fordney said the team was delighted to finally return home after months of preparation and weeks away from family.
“I think everyone is very happy to come back home. It’s been a while since we started our training back in December last year and the competition lasted about three weeks, so we’re really happy to come back and see our families again
“Every player is really happy to be back home and to see our families welcoming us,” he said.
Fordney, who earlier in the campaign scooped the Player of the Match award in Solomon Kings’ 2–0 victory over Extra Bula FC, said playing in some of Oceania’s major stadiums during the opening rounds had been a valuable learning experience for the team.
“It’s a really good experience for me as well.
“Playing in big stadiums with big crowds is one of the toughest challenges. You have to stay focused when there are many people watching.
“But it was exciting and it helped us gain experience and understand each other better on the field as players,” he said.
Despite suffering a recent loss to South Melbourne United, Solomon Kings remain in third place on the league standings, keeping them well in contention as the competition heads into its next phase.
Fordney admitted the defeat was difficult for the team, particularly after being reduced to ten men following a red card incident during the game.
“The loss was a tough game for us. We also had a red card and that cost us as well. But we are looking forward to regrouping and preparing ourselves again,” he said.
The midfielder said the team is especially eager to face South Melbourne again when they play on home soil in Honiara.
“We are looking forward to meeting South Melbourne again at home turf”, he said.
With Round 4 set to be hosted in the capital, Fordney believes the presence of local supporters could make a significant difference as Solomon Kings prepares to face two strong international opponents.
“Our next two matches will be tough for us boys. I only ask our supporters to come out in numbers and cheer for us,” he said.
Fordney added that the team is already aware of the strong backing they are receiving from fans across the country, particularly through social media.
“You can see on social media how our people are backing us. We know it, we feel it and we can see how supporters are behind us,” he said.
Looking ahead, Fordney said the team will focus on improving consistency and sticking to the tactical plans prepared by their coach.
“When we meet strong teams in the competition, we have to stick together and follow our game plan and whatever the coach has prepared for us”, he said.
He concluded with a direct message to fans, urging them to pack the stands when the competition resumes in Honiara.
“I would like to call on all supporters to come out in numbers to support us and cheer for us. Our upcoming games are very tough, but with all your support we will do our best to win”.
Photo: Tony Iroga
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
