Vanuatu inflicted a heavy defeat on hockey first timers Tonga at the BSP Arena today as the sport returned to the Pacific Games after a 12-year absence.
Despite a spirited display by Tonga, who have not participated in Pacific Games hockey before, Vanuatu ran out comfortable 21-1 winners in the men’s match.
Vanuatu captain Hiro Namu gave credit to his opponents despite the one-sided nature of the contest.
“The Tongans played tough, but I was pleased with our performance – the boys played well,” Namu said.
“The Tongans were not a challenge because this is their first time to play hockey in the Pacific Games. They were not strong but it was good experience and I praise their good sportsmanship.
“We are now looking forward to the match against Fiji (at 18:30) as they won this morning with a huge margin, defeating Solomon Islands 22-1.”
Before that match at BSP Arena, Papua New Guinea take on Solomon Islands at 17:00.