PNG makes a statement in the opener

Photo Credit: Pacific Games News Service.

The PNG Football Women’s Team started the first day of the 2023 Pacific Games with a commanding 9-0 victory over American Samoa on Friday, November 17, at SIFF Academy in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

PNG took a comfortable 2-0 lead at half time. The two goals came from the skillful and experienced midfielder, Ramona Padio, through sleek ball movement and well-executed team play.

The Gold Medalists (PNG) from the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa maintained their rhythm in the second half, scoring seven more goals to blow American Samoa off the park.

PNG started the game at a slow pace. However, once the five-time Pacific Champions picked up their phase, they showed no signs of stopping. They went firing on all cylinders, registering nine unanswered goals and sending an early warning signal to other contenders.

Six of PNG’s nine goals came from Team PNG Flag Bearer and Hekari’s stalwart, Ramona Padio. The seasoned campaigner scored two goals in the first half and bagged four more goals in the second stanza. She stole the show and walked away with the player of the match.

Meanwhile, the other encounter in the Pool A clash saw New Caledonia beat Cook Islands 5-3. PNG will rest for two days and take on Cook Islands on Monday, November 20, while New Caledonia will meet American Samoa on the same date.