Auckland FC continued their unbeaten run in the OFC Pro-League with a commanding 4-0 win over Tahiti United at Santos National Football Stadium.
Head coach Luke Casserly rotated his side following the victory over PNG Hekari FC on Saturday, showcasing the depth and quality within the squad – and it was one of those changes that made an immediate impact.
Kian Donkers opened the scoring early after Tahiti United goalkeeper Teave Teamotuaitau failed to deal with a long through ball. When the cross came in, Donkers was perfectly placed to finish from close range.
Despite the early blow, Tahiti United responded well and prevented the game from running away from them in the first half. Mateo Degrumelle and Teanonui Tehau looked the most threatening for the hosts, but Blake Callinan was rarely tested in the Auckland goal.
The league leaders emerged for the second half with a clear intent to extend their advantage. Just four minutes after the restart, James Bayliss doubled the lead. Matt Ellis’ cross from the right found Donkers, who calmly laid the ball off to the on-rushing Bayliss – the midfielder duly side-footing into the corner past a diving Teamotuaitau.
Two minutes later and the game was put beyond doubt. Joseph Athlae miscontrolled a long ball forward, allowing Aston Burns to race clear, and the forward made no mistake, sliding the ball under the ‘keeper to make it 3-0. An Auckland FC first with an assist from goalkeeper Blake Callinan.
Bailey Ferguson added a fourth just after the hour mark as Tahiti United began to fade. Bayliss turned provider, teeing up Ferguson for a composed, curling finish into the far corner.
Substitute Emi Tade thought he had added a fifth late on, tapping home from a Liam Gillion cross, but the offside flag denied him. Auckland FC finished the match out comfortably with a 4-0 win.
Auckland now turn their attention to the weekend, where they have the chance to complete the round with a perfect record again.
Auckland FC Player of the Match: Michael den Heijer
OFC Player of the Match: James Bayliss
