Kings now prepare for challengers group matches in OFC Pro league round 6 in NZ
BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Kings FC have now shifted focus to the Challengers Group stage of the OFC Professional League after bowing out of the top four race following their 2–1 defeat to South Island United in Fiji.
According to OFC Pro league the top 4 teams move into the Leaders Group, where they will compete for the OFC Pro League Championship title while the bottom 4 teams will enter the Challengers Group, to play for ranking positions and pride.
Solomon Kings are looking forward to meet Tahiti United in the opening match of challengers group on Thursday May 7, followed by their second game against Vanuatu United on Sunday 10 then last game against Hekari FC on Wednesday May 13before move on to play-off, Semi-Final and Grand- Final on Sunday May 24 in Auckland, New Zealand.
Speaking to Island Sun after the defeat, team captain Philip Mango admitted the result was disappointing but stressed that the squad remains determined to bounce back.
“Despite a strong start in the competition, recent results have cost them a crucial place among the top contenders,” he said.
He said that the team will regroup and refocus following their setback, as they now turn attention to the challenge Play-Off.
The loss sees the Kings slip down the standings, dealing with a heavy blow to their hopes of reaching the semi-finals with 18 points and secured 5 spots in standing table finished of round 5 of OFC Pro League.
Mango said with only a few matches remaining, the dream of finishing in the top four is now out of reach, leaving the team to play for pride and finish the season on a strong note.
He added that the focus now shifts to regrouping, learning from the setbacks, and building momentum for future competitions.
“We will regroup, fix our mistakes, and come back stronger for the challenge Play-Off,” he said.
He said despite missing out on the top four, the Kings are not giving up on the competition.
The focus now shifts to rebuilding confidence, sharpening tactics, and preparing mentally for the next challenge games.
“The team is expected to return to Australia to do their training immediately as they aim to finish their OFC Pro League campaign on a positive note and make a strong statement in the play-offs,” he said.
He said the team is looking forward to the challenge games Play-Off, as the team shifts focus after missing out on a top-four finish.
The skipper remains confident the squad can bounce back stronger and deliver a solid performance in the next stage of the competition.
“We are disappointed, but we are now focused on the challenge games Play-Off, the team is ready to fight,” he said.
Mango added that the players are determined to regroup, stay united, and give their best as they aim to end their OFC Pro League campaign on a high note.
“With renewed determination, the Kings will now prepare for the challenge ahead, hoping to turn setbacks into motivation on the big stage,” he said.
The four Challengers teams set to meet each other are Solomon Kings, Tahiti United, Vanuatu United and PNG Hekari.
The round 6 of OFC Pro League is scheduled for May 6- 24 May in Auckland, New Zealand for both leaders and challengers group series followed by playoffs on Sunday May 17, semi-final on Wednesday May 20 and final matches for both series on May 24th.
Mango said they extend their heartfelt appreciation to all supporters and fans who rallied behind them throughout their campaign.
He said the club acknowledges the strong backing from home and abroad, adding that the support has been a major source of motivation for them during tough matches.
“We thank our fans and supporters for standing with us every step of the way, your support means everything to the team,” he said.
Despite recent setbacks, he emphasised that encouragement from fans continues to inspire them as they prepare for the next games.
He said the team remains committed to giving their best and making their supporters proud as they continue their journey in the OFC Pro League.
Photo credit: SK Facebook Page
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