PRE-SEASON training for the upcoming Oceania champion’s League has resumed for Solomon Islands representatives Marist FC and Western United FC.

Both clubs will be competing at the competition which starts later in March.

Telekom Soccer League champions Marist FC are drawn in Group D and will battle Rewa FC, Erakor Golden Star FC and AS Tefana FC at the Stade Pater in Tahiti.

TSL runner-ups Western United FC meanwhile will head to Auckland New Zealand for their Group C matches against Malampa Revivors FC, Lae City Dwellers FC and reigning champions Auckland City FC.

Marist FC who begun their pre-season training last week are still without Head Coach Juliano Schmeling who is still away doing his coaching B license.

The champions took on the national U-17 side in two friendly matches early in the week as part of the U-17s preparation for the upcoming OFC qualifiers next month in Tahiti.

“Our off season training for the championship league is progressing well. However there are still a lot of improvements and gaps which we need to work on following the departure of our four PNG players,” Marist FC interim-Head Coach Jerry Sam said.

“We are working hard not only on the field but also in our gyms to get each players physically fit for the championship league.

“So far our preparation is going on well for the OFC Champions League. Our players are coming in and settling down after the holiday seasons. They are committed and are doing fine,” Sam adds.

KOSSA FC mid-fielder Charles Otainao have joined the Marist training camp as they look to local talents to fill the gap left by their four PNG imports.

Western United FC for this campaign is hoping to win and collect points after a unconvincing run during their last appearance at the competition.

Head Coach Commins Menapi and Physio Faamoana Tupoe has stressed that selection process will be tough as they look to make an impact this time round.

“This season we are looking to win and score goals compared to when we qualified two years ago,” a statement released by the club said.

“Western United FC is looking to depart early to have three friendly matches in Auckland before the group C OFC League starts.

“Players will have to prove to him beyond reasonable doubt that they are capable to compete in the Oceania Champions League.

“Not every player who played in the S League for Western United will be selected. A fitness test will be conducted next week to see the level of fitness of the player’s.

“After this test, the coaches will tell where the team is at the moment. Senior players in the squad will not be tolerated for their attitude in missing trainings,” the statement adds.

Hadis Aegari of Solomon Warriors FC, Leslie Natei of Real Kakamora FC and Nelson Sale of Amicale FC are the new inclusions in the Western United FC training camp.