Henderson Eels wary of Lautoka
The Solomon-Islands based Henderson Eels Football Club are wary of Lautoka in the OFC Champions League. The two meet next Wednesday (February 13) at Churchill Park, Lautoka.
Group B of the 2019 Champions League kicks-off on Sunday with the Eels playing Tahiti’s AS Central Sport (2pm), while Lautoka face Papua New Guinea’s Morobe Wawens (4pm).
The Eels are making their competition debut but have included some experienced players in the squad, including former Koloale FC forward Joses Nawo. Lautoka were runners-up in last year’s competition, losing 10-3 on aggregate to New Zealand’s Team Wellington over two matches. Eels head coach Eddie Marahare says the ‘Sugar City’ side will be the team to beat in Group B. He was speaking at a training session in Nadovu Park, Lautoka yesterday.
“We came here prepared for this tournament and we know it will be tough but we are ready for this,” Marahare said.
“Lautoka is a good side and they have some imports which will make them hard to beat. Playing in their home ground is also an advantage for them. We have been watching their games as well via video.”
He added: “We also arrived early to let the players acclimatise before our matches. We also watched the friendly between AS Central Sport and Nadi on Wednesday,.”
Some of the players in the Solomons club include: David Muta, Freddie Kini, Boni Pride, Alick Maemae, Clement Baegeni, Andrew Kam, Clifton Aumae, Junior Albert, and Tutizama Tanito.