Teaonui Tehau scores a spectacular bicycle kick for Tahiti. Photo: OFC Media via Phototek
Defending champions Tahiti withstood a strong challenge from Solomon Islands, coming from behind to win 10-3 at the Oceania Beach Soccer Nations Cup in Papeete on Thursday.
The Solomons had defeated Fiji yesterday while twice Beach Soccer World Cup finalists Tahiti had sauntered past Tonga, so this was a match that could decide who tops the table.
The Bilikili scored early through Thomas Amasia but two goals in reply put the host nation in front 2-1 at the first break.
From there, Tahiti took control with Heirauarii Salem scoring a hat-trick.
Earlier in the day, Fiji bounced back from their opening day defeat by Solomon Islands to thrash Tonga 21-3.
The Tongans who had been beaten 26-3 by hosts Tahiti on the opening day again struggled against the physical Fijians.
Both Tevita Waranaivalu and Gabiriele Matanisiga scored five goals apiece.
On Friday, Tahiti play Fiji, while the Solomons face off against Tonga.
- OFC Media