We showed resilience, says coach

The Fiji Women football team fought back from a 3-0 deficit to bow out 3-2 against Hong Kong in their International Friendlies on Wednesday night.

Dubbed the Fiji Kulas, they started nervously and were trailing 0-1 at halftime.

The hosts extended their lead to 3-0 with two quick goals and put the Fiji under immense pressure.

However, the Kulas responded after coach Nicola Demaine demanded them to fight back.

Narieta Leba pulled one back before Elesi Tabunase added the second to set-up a tense finish, as they were unable to socre the equaliser.

Demaine was encouraged by the experience gained against quality opposition outside the Oceania region.

“The game was exactly what we wanted it to be. A challenging test outside the OFC competition,” she told Fiji FA Media.

“We started nervously, not knowing what to expect, but developed confidence as the game progressed. That’s why we need exposure at this level.

“Obviously, we aren’t happy about conceding three goals, but coming back from 3-0 down to make it 3-2 showed great resilience.”

The match also allowed Fiji to utilise all 18 players available under FIFA’s updated substitution regulations, providing valuable game time across the squad.

Among those who featured was Ulamila Rasovasova, who made her senior international debut.

Demaine believes the lessons learned from the defeat would help the side improve ahead of the second match on Saturday.

“I’m confident the lessons learnt will contribute to a more consistent performance in the next game.”