Thousands packed into Lawson Tama Stadium to watch their Koloale heroes take on Amicale, who included Solomon Islands stars Richard Anisua, Nelson Sale, Jack Wetney, Gibson Daudau and Stanley Waita in their starting line-up.

Koloale was lethal with Totori and Paia playing up front, putting Amicale's defence in the back foot many times. The general lack of shots on target cost Koloale dearly, finding it difficult to finish off some well placed chances. The crowd grew weary and it affected general play throughout the first half.

The legendary Batram Suri, a household name in the football-mad Solomons, was among the substitutes in the second half and earned a rapturous reception when he took the field just before the hour mark. The second half was a lot like the first, with both teams lacking the clinical finish.

The fanatical home fans had more to cheer in the 83rd minute when Joses Nawo latched onto a Jeffery Bule through ball and beat both defenders Alphonse Bongnaim and goalkeeper Ernest Bong before slotting home for the win.

Amicale left the door slightly ajar for nearest rivals Lautoka with the loss to Koloale. But Lautoka could not pull off the massive victory over Hekari it would have taken for them to steal top spot in Group A and their bid fizzled out with a 1-1 draw.

The first leg of the grand final will take place on the weekend of April 2-3 while the second will be held on April 16 or 17.