Tommy Smith helps New Zealand to draw

SKIPPER Tommy Smith led New Zealand to an unbeaten group campaign after drawing with hosts Solomon Islands 1-1 in the Oceania Nations Cup.

The Ipswich Town defender, still undefeated as All Whites captain, helped his country to a draw which left New Zealand top of their group – and setting up a semi-final showdown with New Caladonia on Friday.

It also meant Smith and his team mates progressed to the third round of World Cup qualifying and also a play-off for a place at the Confederations Cup.

The other semi-final will be contested by the Solomon Islands and Tahiti.