BY CHRIS ALEX
IN the XVII Pacific Games 2023 football competition, the Solomon Islands defeated American Samoa 11-0 in the Group D final at Lawson Tama Stadium this afternoon, thanks to five goals from John Orobulu.
With two games played, Orubulu has already scored six goals in all. In the opening Pacific Games football match, the Solomon Islands defeated Samoa 1-0, and Orubulu scored the game’s lone goal with a header.
The 24-year-old acknowledged the incredible support from the fans in addition to showcasing his scoring prowess.
On his second appearance for the national team, Orobulu thanked all of the friends, family, and supporters who came out in large numbers to support the team.
He said, “I obviously moved by the outpouring of support. I saw family and friends come in numbers to support us today, and I want to give my sincere gratitude for their effort behind our soccer team.”
The striker, who notched six goals in just two games, gave his teammates credit for their combined efforts.
He said, “I want to thank all my friends for working together so far. Without them, I think there is no such opportunity for me to score these goals today,” said Orobulu in a post-match interview with local media.
Orobulu, who was competing in his first Pacific Games, expressed his happiness to be representing his nation at home.
“I’m thrilled to be playing for my nation for the second time with the national soccer team. With pride,” he said, “I hope we can improve our upcoming football match results to the best of my ability and effort.”
Orobulu is upbeat about the team’s prospects as they move on to the semi-finals. He said, “I am looking forward to the semi-final, I really prepared for it and have confidence in every boys to put on a better performance and win the semi-final.”
The Solomon Islands National Men’s Football Team’s dominant performance not only secures them a spot in the semi-finals but also establishes them as a formidable force in the men’s football competition at the Pacific Games 2023, with John Orobulu emerging as a key player to watch.
