New Zealand virtually sealed a soccer spot at the Beijing Olympics this summer by beating the Solomon Islands 2-0 in a crucial clash in the Oceania men's qualifying tournament yesterday.
The national under-23 team only needs to secure a draw in the final round tomorrow against a weak Cook Islands team to secure the tournament win.
The Cook Islands have let in 24 goals in their first three matches and are yet to score in the tournament.
By contrast, the Solomon Islands have scored 22 goals in the first three rounds but a well-organized New Zealand defense neutralized their talented opponents in the fourth round clash between the two previously unbeaten sides.
The New Zealanders made their mark after just five minutes with a header from defender Steve Old finding the Solomons' net.
Prospects for the Solomon Islands darkened further just seven minutes later when Alick Maemae was sent off for an ugly tackle.
New Zealand goalkeeper Jacob Spoonley made two fine saves to maintain the Kiwis' lead, before midfielder Craig Henderson scored a magnificent goal from 25m to secure the victory.
The final nail in the Solomons' coffin was a red card for star Benjamin Totori in the 74th minute.
"Craig scored with an absolute pile-driver from 25 meters and when they lost Totori it was all over. It's a great result," New Zealand coach Stu Jacobs said.
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