BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
SOLOMON Kings FC have issued a public apology to fans in Honiara following a disappointing 5–1 defeat to Tahiti United FC in Round 5 action at HFC Bank Stadium over the weekend.
Head coach Ben Cahn admitted his side fell well below their usual standards, pointing to a lack of intensity and failure to contest key moments.
“We lost every second ball and didn’t bring the intensity we usually play at,” Cahn said post-match.
“For that, we owe an apology to our fans back home.”
Cahn acknowledged the performance was unacceptable but noted the team’s focus on a swift recovery.
“We understand it wasn’t good enough. We’ll reflect, move on quickly, and come back stronger.”
The coach confirmed that changes to the starting lineup are likely ahead of their next fixture as the team looks to regain form.
Captain Jezz Lofthouse, who scored his side’s only goal, echoed his coach’s sentiments, describing the performance as far below expectations.
“We just got outplayed and, honestly, everyone let go of us in that moment,” Lofthouse said.
“Everyone in that squad — myself included — we weren’t at it.”
Despite a positive experience in Fiji overall, Lofthouse did not hide his frustration.
“It was a rubbish performance. That’s not who we are, and we’re sorry.”
After a strong start to the competition, Solomon Kings FC have struggled to maintain momentum. A disappointing Round 4 saw them collect just one point from two matches, and the latest loss leaves them sitting fifth on the table.
With two crucial fixtures remaining, the Kings must deliver strong performances to secure a place in the Leaders Group — a result that would still cap an otherwise promising campaign.
However, the challenge is significant. They failed to win their earlier encounters against both South Island United and Vanuatu United FC, the very teams they now face in decisive matches.
Despite mounting pressure, Cahn remains confident his side can respond, with a crucial clash against Vanuatu United FC today evening.
The Kings now face a defining moment in their campaign — one that will test their resilience and determine whether they can turn early promise into a successful finish.
Photo: OFC Pro-League
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