Tears of joy flowed freely amongst the Solomon Islands players, officials and supporters at the Vodafone Arena in Suva as the crafty Islanders sealed their place in the 2008 FUTSAL World Cup after topping the OFC FUTSAL Championships.
Solomon Islands were done a huge favour by second finishers Tahiti who sent front runners Vanuatu packing after upsetting them 2-1 to give Solomon supporters much needed hope prior to their final match against minnows Tuvalu.Backed by a jam packed crowd at the Arena, Solomon Islanders thumped Tuvalu 12-0 to top the points and more importantly book a place in the world event in Brazil.
Sensational captain Elliot Ragomo was in tears after the final whistle and could not hold back his emotions as he thanked the almighty and the people of Solomon Islands and dedicated their success to them.
"We are really overjoyed with this win and want to thank each and everyone who supported us all throughout and this win is dedicated to all of them.
"Our coaches have done a great job in developing us from a young age of 12 and keeping us together until now which has been the contributing factor behind our success here.
"We will do our best in the World Cup and call on for support and well wishes from our brothers and sisters in Oceania as we will be carrying their hopes in Brazil" said Ragomo.
Solomon Islands topped the championships with 15 points and Tahiti finished second with 13 points while Vanuatu settled at third spot with 12 points.
Defeating lowly Tuvalu 12-0 today, the Solomon Islands sealed their qualification for the FIFA Futsal World Cup Brazil 2008.