Soccer: NZ just get home against Fiji

Steven Old. Photo / Brett Phibbs

A goal in the dying minutes by Steven Old gave New Zealand a 2-1 win over Fiji and a flying start to their Oceania zone Olympics qualifying campaign in Lautoka today.

The Wellington Phoenix defender struck in the 90th minute of regulation time after a corner to make amends for his role in Fiji's only goal of the match.

New Zealand looked composed and solid in the first half while Fiji made a number of opportunities that weren't taken.

The Oly-Whites had the ball in the net in the 29th minute from a Daniel Ellehnson freekick but referee Job Minan from Papua New Guinea blew for an offside.

New Zealand took the lead in the 33rd minute when Cole Peverley lashed home a shot that gave Fiji goalkeeper Benaminio Mateinaqara no chance.

Fiji drew level eight minutes later when a Malakai Tiwa long range attempt found the back of the net after deflecting off Old.

Heavy rain fell 10 minutes into the second half but New Zealand attack got a shot in the arm once Costa Barbarouses replaced Shaun van Rooyen in attack.

The young Wellington Phonenix professional had a lively game at the heart of a number of increasingly dangerous New Zealand attacks.

Fiji's Roy Krishna almost put his side ahead in the 86th minute but was denied by a brilliant save from New Zealand goalkeeper Jacob Spoonley.

New Zealand pushed hard for the winner as Fiji retreated into defence and were finally rewarded with Old's winner with two minute of added time to spare.

- NZPA