Auckland FC strike twice in stoppage time to seal a dramatic win.
Auckland FC left it late, scoring in the 90+2 and 90+10 minutes to claim all three points and maintain their perfect start to the OFC Pro League campaign.
It was a clash of first versus last on the ladder. Auckland FC had swept through Round 1 unbeaten, while PNG Hekari were still searching for their first points.
Hekari goalkeeper Dave Tomare proved crucial in keeping the contest level before halftime, producing a superb double save to deny Aiden Carey from point-blank range. The half ended in controversy when referee Jose Cabero initially showed Rex Naime a red card for a late challenge, but VAR intervened, and the decision was downgraded to a yellow.
The tempo lifted after the break, though chances remained limited. Gunemba found space inside the left channel but fired straight at Oscar Mason, who gathered safely after an initial fumble. Moments later, Auckland captain Reid Drake saw his effort from the edge of the box tipped over brilliantly by Tomare.
Seeking a breakthrough, Luke Casserly turned to his bench, introducing Emi Tade and Aston Burns. With time running out and the match seemingly headed for a stalemate, it was substitute Bailey Ferguson who delivered the decisive blow. Reacting quickest to Carey’s flick-on from a long throw, Ferguson finished from close range to spark celebrations in the Auckland camp.
There was still time for one more. A late handball awarded Auckland a penalty deep into stoppage time. Tade stepped up confidently, sending Tomare the wrong way to wrap up a 2-0 victory and maintain Auckland FC’s flawless record.
Auckland FC Player of the Match: Daniel Normann
OFC Player of the Match: Reid Drake
