The Vodafone Fiji national side defeated Solomon Islands 1-0 in the second international friendly match at Churchill Park in Lautoka last Sunday (May 28).

In the 58th minute a free kick was awarded to the Bula Boys after Nelson Sale made a dangerous foul on midfielder Christopher Wasasala just outside the penalty box which also saw Sale receiving the marching order from Vanuatu referee Joel Hopken.

Defender Kolinio Sivoki confidently stood up to take the free kick in front of the goalmouth which saw the ball sail above the Solomon’s line of defence beating the goalkeeper Philip Mango.

The visitors were lucky not to have scored in the first spell as Fijian goalkeeper Tevita Koroi saved what seemed like a possible goal with a magnificent dive to his right on Micah Lea’alafa’s feet.

Both teams had a few scoring opportunities but failed.

In one of the moves, Hughes’ cross kick from the flank landed in front of the goalmouth, finding Waqa who used his chest to tap the ball past the goalkeeper, but unfortunately the goal was disallowed after the match official ruled a hand ball.

The side continued to apply pressure forcing the opposition to commit mistakes.

The national side showcased wonderful brand of soccer much to the amazement of the coach and the local fans.

Gamel said he wanted to introduce a new game pattern to the national team and was elated that his players had slowly demonstrated what he wanted.

He said it took him four games to finally mould a winning team after chopping some renowned players and replaced them with new boys.

“I tried to change some tactical aspect of the game during training and the players responded well in our win today,” Gamel said.

“Congratulations to the Bula Boys. They tried to express the football I introduced three months ago when I first came and it’s exactly the potential I see in these boys.”

“Personally all my sacrifices in France have been answered.”

Skipper Amani Makoe dedicated the win to all the fans and to the people of Fiji.

“I thank the boys for their effort and we are happy with our achievements.”

Solomon’s coach Filipe Vega Arango Alonso said basic mistakes and indiscipline cost his team the win.

“We made few mistakes that cost us the game and Fiji played well.”

The teams recorded a 1-all draw in their opening match.

Fiji line-up:

Tevita Koroi, Kolinio Sivoki, IlaitiaTuilau, RemueraTekiata, Amani Makoe, Christoper Wasasala, Epeli Saukuru, Dave Radregai, Setareki Hughes, Saula Waqa, Laisenia Raura.

Reserves: Vuniuci Tikomaimereke, Kavaia Rawaqa, Waisake Tabucava, Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Iosefo Verevou, Madhwan Goundar, Arfroz Ali, Shaneel Naisu, Manav Permal.