‘We’re not done yet’: Manning rallies Tonga after Sāmoa loss

Tonga have no time to dwell on their opening loss to Sāmoa in the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Under-16 Women’s Championship in the Solomon Islands.

Tongan captain Melia Manning is already looking ahead to a crucial clash with Papua New Guinea in their bid to reach the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) U17 Women’s World Cup.

Tonga went down 2-1 in Honiara on Monday but showed plenty of fight after falling behind.

Angel Mailangi produced a stunning long-range strike from the left flank in the 49th minute.

Manning said through OFC Media that the Sāmoa defeat has not changed the belief inside the Tongan camp.

“We’re not done yet, we’re going to keep working hard and win for you guys. I’m super proud of my team, we fought hard and it was a tough game for us.

“But even though the score didn’t reflect it, my team worked really hard and they gave everything they had. I’m just excited for the next games to come.”

Tonga’s next test comes against Papua New Guinea on Thursday at 5pm NZT, with the Melanesian side also looking for a response after a 5-2 loss to New Caledonia.

That makes the Group B clash an early pressure game for both teams, with another defeat leaving their path to the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship title and FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualification in serious danger.

Meanwhile, it was a dream start for Sāmoa as they chase a third consecutive FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup appearance.

Taimane Devoux’s brace gave Sāmoa the confidence to hold off a spirited Tonga side and head into Thursday’s clash against New Caledonia at 8pm NZT, with the winner to avoid an early defeat.

Sāmoan player Tova Auva’a credited her side’s communication as a key factor in securing the win.

“I’m just most proud of our communication,” Auva’a told OFC Media. “I think our communication stayed locked in, I think that’s where most of our energy came from.

“I think the effort we put in was outstanding. Honestly, I think it was hot… we pushed through it, and I think it showed.”

Despite the dramatic goals, neither side could add to their tally after the break. Tonga had chances to snatch a late equaliser, but Sāmoa held firm to secure the victory.