Soccer: Island nations are up to the challenge of Oceania

Island credibility goes back on the line in today's Oceania club championship soccer semifinals.

Auckland City coach Allan Jones, who puts his side out against Fijian champions Nokia Eagles on North Harbour's outer oval, has no doubts the smaller of the confederations nations are up to the challenge.

"From what we have seen, there is no doubt that the standard has improved from what we saw in Tahiti a year ago," said Jones.

Once his game is over, Jones will take more than passing interest in the second semifinal on the No 1 pitch where Tahiti's AS Pirae tackle New Zealand Football Championship runner-up YoungHeart Manawatu for a place in Sunday's final.

A 1-0 loss to Pirae cost City their place in last year's semifinals.

Manawatu face a tough one. Much will depend on how well they control Jose Hmae. He is a talented player and could unlock Manawatu if they are not careful.

Jones has no doubts that his team too face a battle against the Eagles who have recruited well after missing the cut a year ago.

Graham Little is nursing a broken nose after Tuesday's 1-0 win over Pirae but will be ready to play if named.

Manawatu is looking for an easier passage than in their final pool match where they had to come from 3-0 down to draw 3-3 with Tafea FC to stay alive.