Auckland FC continued their flawless start to the OFC Pro-League, securing a third straight win, with a 1–0 victory over Bula FC at North Harbour Stadium.
An early strike from midfielder Daniel Normann proved decisive, as Auckland FC were forced to dig deep in a nervy second half after being reduced to ten men.
The result sees Auckland FC finish Round One with maximum points, sitting top of the OFC Pro-League ladder ahead of the competition’s second round in Papua New Guinea.
Head coach Luke Casserly reverted to the same starting XI that opened the season against South Island United, making nine changes from the side that defeated Vanuatu United FC. Reid Drake and Daniel Normann were the only two players to start all three of Auckland’s Round One fixtures.
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute, with Drake delivering a low corner that Normann calmly swept into the bottom-right corner – a well-worked set piece.
Much of the pre-match focus centred on the battle between brothers Liam Gillion (Auckland FC) and Fergus Gillion (Bula FC). It was Fergus who came closest for Bula FC before halftime, firing a volley over the bar from close range after a strong run down the left.
Auckland thought they had doubled their lead early in the second half when Everton O’Leary pounced on a defensive error, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review.
Stéphane Auvray made two late changes in an effort to turn the tide, but Oscar Mason and the Auckland FC defence held out for a hard-earned victory. Tensions flared in the final moments of the match as Bula FC frustration boiled over, resulting in a number of cautions.
Despite late pressure, Auckland FC held firm to preserve their perfect Round One record.
Auckland FC Player of the Match: Daniel Normann
OFC Player of the Match: James Bayliss
Next Game: Auckland FC take on PNG Hekari FC in Port Moresby, Papa New Guinea on Saturday 31st January, 9:30pm NZT at Santos National Football Stadium.
