BY MIKE TUA
SOLOMON Islands Football Federation (SIFF) President Donald Marahare is optimistic that his administrative development thoughts and plans for the future of the country’s football are set on positive footing by the national men’s senior football squad victory as champions of the 2023 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup.
SIFF President congratulated the national senior squad for being the champions of this year’s edition of the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup.
“As champions, you carry the hopes and dreams of our country, and I have no doubt that you will continue to represent us with honor and distinction in future competitions.
“Congratulations once again on this historical victory and may this be the beginning of a new era of success for our senior men’s national football team,” Marahare said at the SIFF-hosted celebratory dinner on October 19 at the Pacific Crown Hotel’s Paradise Ocean Crown Restaurant in Honiara.
This year’s edition of the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup was held from October 8–15, 2023. New Caledonia hosted the competition, with matches being played at the Stade Numa-Daly Magenta in Nouméa and the Stade Yoshida in Koné.
The national senior squad played suitably, beating PNG 3-1, Vanuatu 1-0, and the host New Caledonia by the same margin. In the course of the tournament, the boys only conceded one goal against PNG.
Marahare noted that the national senior side have ushered in a new era for football in the country by scooping the first major historic trophy in their long history.
“This is a historical moment, marking 29 years since our last championship win in Honiara as a host country in 1994.
“It is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and talent of our players and coaching staff; your journey to this championship has been remarkable, and you have shown an unwavering commitment and resilience throughout the tournament.
“Your performance both on and off the field made our entire nation proud, and your victory has brought joy and unity to our people.
“This achievement is not all about winning a trophy but is also part of inspiring the new generation of athletes and fostering national pride; you’ve demonstrated that with teamwork, determination, and perseverance, any goal can be achieved,” the SIFF President added.
Marahare later acknowledged the key supporters and stakeholders for their unwavering support for the senior side campaign in New Caledonia.
“I stand with honor on behalf of the SIFF Executive and the SIFF body as a whole to say that the team’s terrific run could not have come about without the tremendous help and support from a number of key supporters and stakeholders.
“Firstly, I wish to thank, on behalf of the players, your families for their understanding and patience.
“As well, I wish to acknowledge those of you who have worked so hard and tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the national team proudly participated successfully throughout the tournament. I make reference to people within and outside of SIFF; your efforts were highly recommended.
“I would like to thank the national government through the Ministry of Home Affairs (which looks after the sports portfolio) as well as the Office of the Prime Minister for your ongoing and unwavering support and the assistance you have rendered and will continue to render to the Federation.
“The Solomon Islands Government will continue to remain the Federation’s key and important partner going forward,” he added.
