Fiji held by Solomons as PNG win in Oceania Nations Cup action

Hosts Fiji were held to a surprise 1-1 draw by Solomon Islands in their Oceania football Women's Nations Cup tie opener in Suva, while PNG got off the mark with a win over Vanuatu.

Fiji took the lead in the first half when Vanisha Kumar powered past the Solomons goalkeeper Margaret Kofela.

But the Solomons, which was playing in its first Nations Cup game since 2010, gained an equaliser before half-time.

Jemina David was tumbled over in the box by Unaisi Tuberi and a penalty kick was awarded. Solomons captain Ileen Pegi sent the goalkeeper the wrong way for the leveller.

Fiji gained the upper hand in the second half, with Mereoni Tora twice heading wide and Kumar forcing a fine reaction save from Kofela, but their foes held on for the point.

The draw leaves Group C finely poised with Fiji and New Caledonia up next on Sunday before Solomon Islands take on New Caledonia on Wednesday.