Kings FC to regroup ahead of determination matches in round 5 of OFC Pro league
BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Kings FC will regroup for two remaining decisive matches after a tough start in Round 5 of the OFC Pro League which is currently underway at HFC Ba Stadium in Suva, Fiji.
Solomon Kings took the lead first through Jez Lofthouse but Tahiti United came back strongly, with Germain Haewegene scoring a hat-trick.
They were beaten 5–1 by Tahiti United in their Round 5 opener as Tahiti United dominated the game, with Solomon Kings FC unable to cope with their attacking strength.
In an interview with OFC media, Junior David highlighted that they did not give their best in the game against Tahiti United.
He said they will regroup and come back stronger on Tuesday night and they won’t let one bad game define their season.
Speaking to the Island Sun yesterday team captain, Jez Lofthouse expressed that round 5 is crucial because it’s the final stage before the league splits into leaders and challenge group teams.
“We already came into this round under pressure, having struggled to beat key rivals earlier in the competition,” he said.
He said despite the heavy defeat, they still have two matches remaining in Round 5 to recover the points.
“The upcoming games like Vanuatu United FC and South Island United could decide our fate as strong response is essential if we make it to top four,” he said.
Solomon Kings head coach Mr Ben Cahn has urged his squad to stay mentally strong and to not let one big defeat affect their confidence.
He said the team needs to refocus quickly and treat every remaining match like a final and be more disciplined defensively to avoid conceding easy goals.
Coach Cahn said he wants his team to take chances early like they did when they scored first in round 5 and for them to play as a unit with better communication and teamwork on the pitch.
He added that they can still make it to the top four, but they must win their remaining games and stay focused.
“The race for the top 4 leaders’ group is very tight as the squad still has a realistic chance but little room for more mistakes,” he said.
The coach also acknowledged supporters of Solomon Kings FC during the 2026 OFC Pro League campaign.
“Huge appreciation for the strong backing from Solomon Islands fans, especially during the tough round 5 period,” he said.
Cahn also appreciates the support from back home and those who came out to support them in Fiji as it means a lot to the players.
“Fans have been loyal and passionate, even after a heavy defeat the team felt motivated by the support from Solomon Islands,” he said.
He encourages fans to keep believing in the team and recognising that fan support plays a big role as the team pushes to finish strong.
Germain Haewegene’s hat-trick secured a valuable victory for Tahiti United against Solomon Kings, as they kept their top four hopes alive.
Solomon Kings FC found themselves down in 5th place following South Island United’s victory earlier in the day, whilst Tahiti United knew a win would put them within a striking distance of a Leaders Group spot.
Solomon Kings took their time getting started but once they hit their stride, they did so to devastating effect.
The dominant victory lifts Tahiti United up to the 6th spot, at the expense of Vanuatu United FC, with only two points now separating them and the top four.
Photo: Supplied
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
