Solomon Kings FC Hand Auckland FC First Defeat of the Season.
Auckland FC suffered their first loss of the campaign, falling 3-1 to Solomon Kings FC in a challenging outing in Port Moresby.
Anticipation was high heading into the clash, with the league’s two strongest defensive sides going head-to-head. But in the end, it was Solomon Kings who proved sharper, more composed, and better suited to the demanding Papua New Guinea conditions.
The heat appeared to take its toll on Auckland FC early, as the league leaders looked a step off the pace throughout the opening half. Ben Cahn’s side moved the ball with confidence and intent, forcing Auckland onto the back foot from the outset.
Sota Higashide and Junior David both tested goalkeeper Blake Callinan inside the opening exchanges, with David drawing an excellent save from the young shot-stopper as the hosts searched for the breakthrough.
Jez Lofthouse went close with a low strike before Solomon Kings were handed a golden opportunity to open the scoring. Higashide’s clever flick was handled by Daniel Normann inside the area, and referee David Yareboinen pointed to the spot. Higashide stepped up and calmly chipped his penalty down the middle to give the home side a deserved lead.
The advantage was doubled just before the break. Higashide once again found space in the box and delivered a dangerous cross, allowing Bobby Leslie to sneak in and poke the ball under Callinan from close range.
Luke Casserly turned to his bench at half-time in search of renewed energy, but Solomon Kings continued their dominance after the restart. Their third goal arrived soon after, with Higashide again instrumental — drifting between the lines before lifting a perfectly weighted ball over the defence for Lofthouse, who controlled well and finished clinically.
Higashide nearly capped off a standout performance with a second goal of his own, striking the post from distance as Solomon Kings pushed to put the contest beyond doubt.
To their credit, Auckland FC continued to press and were rewarded late on. Emiliano Tade slipped Liam Gillion through on goal, and although his finish was initially ruled out for offside, a VAR review overturned the decision and the goal stood.
Despite the defeat, Auckland FC remain top of the table, while Solomon Kings climb to third, level on points with second-placed South Melbourne FC.
