by Ronald Toito’ona
Central Coast United Football Club (FC) forward-midfielder Hudson Oreinima has delivered a stellar performance, netting five goals in his side’s commanding 7-0 victory over Tupapa Maraerenga FC today, at the National Stadium in Honiara.
His outstanding display earned him the Player of the Match award, cementing his position as the OFC Men’s Champions League 2025 current top scorer. He is also the first to score a hat-trick in the competition.
The big win is crucial as it keeps Central Coast’s semi-final hopes alive, after they suffered an opening-round defeat to Hekari United FC.
The fight for a spot in the semi-finals for Group B is wide open, as Hekari United FC, Ifira Black Bird FC, and Central Coast FC will need to win their remaining pool matches this Sunday, to qualify.
Speaking to the local media after collecting the Man of the Match Award, a visibly elated Oreinima attributed his success to divine strength and the collective effort of his teammates.
“First of all, I want to thank God for the strength that made me win this award. It’s not that easy to win such an award from such a prestigious tournament like this – Oceania’s best,” Oreinima said.
“I would also like to thank my teammates. Because of solid teamwork, I am able to win the Player of the Match award,” he added.
His five-goal haul propelled him to the top of the golden boot race.
Despite the emphatic win, Oreinima remains focused on the team’s ultimate goal—qualification for the semi-finals.
“The final game is a must-win game for the team in order for us to qualify for the semi-finals. We will go back to the drawing board, regroup, and prepare for the final game this Sunday,” he stated.
This remarkable performance is Oreinima first individual accolade at this level of competition.
“I am so very happy to be getting this award. Since playing football, this is the first award for me at this level of Oceania football, and I feel happy and proud at the same time,” he stated.
Oreinima also acknowledged the emotional rollercoaster of the tournament so far and the team’s determination to bounce back.
“This is a big win, and the team is very excited to come off with a big win, despite all of us being downhearted in the opening loss against Hekari United FC on Monday,” he admitted.
“We have been preparing well for this game after going down to Hekari United FC, earlier.”
With their sights set on the semi-finals, Oreinima and Central Coast FC will now shift their focus to their decisive final group match. If his current form is anything to go by, Oreinima will continue to be a key player in Central Coast’s pursuit of OFC Men’s Champions League glory.