BY JOY OFASIA
Central Coast FC retained their S-League title by narrowly defeating Malaita Kingz FC 1-0 in a decisive match at Lawson Tama Stadium. They had to wait until the very last day of the 2025 Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Super League season to secure the championship, but they did so in thrilling fashion.
The season finale at Lawson Tama Stadium was a winner-takes-all clash between league leaders Central Coast and second-placed Malaita Kingz FC, who were just two points behind and chasing their first-ever title.
The match was tense and evenly matched, with both sides creating chances. The breakthrough came when striker Clifford Fafale was brought down in the penalty area by Kingz goalkeeper David Sanga. Midfielder Marlon Tahioa stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, scoring the only goal of the game and securing Central Coast’s back-to-back championship and their third S-League title overall.
Coach Jacob Moli praised his team’s unity and focus. “We stayed together as a team despite the tough challenges. Our players worked hard, and this penalty goal was the reward for a season of effort,” he said.
The season’s awards also highlighted Central Coast’s dominance. Goalkeeper Erick Peter Wanega claimed the Golden Glove, while Clifford Fafale won the Golden Boot with 23 goals. Veteran Joses Nawo was named the League’s Best Player.
Other award winners included Sosa FC for the Fair Play Award, Natalia Lumukana as Assistant Referee of the Year, and Ben Aukwai as Referee of the Year.
The championship also earns Central Coast the right to represent the Solomon Islands in the 2026 Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Champions League.
The final league standings saw Central Coast finish on 54 points, followed by Malaita Kingz FC with 49 points, debutants Green Shield FC in third with 47 points, and Honiara City FC rounding out the top four with 46 points.
With a dramatic win on the final day, Central Coast FC has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in Solomon Islands football, while Malaita Kingz FC’s impressive season promises an exciting rivalry in 2026.
