Solomon Kings FC made a winning start to the OFC Pro League as they overcame 10-man PNG Hekari FC in the final match of the weekend at Eden Park.
The final two teams to make their competition bow, both coaches were determined to make up for the wait and lay down an early marker in Round 1.
Expectations were high as both teams fielded starting line-ups packed full of attacking intent and there was no shortage of commitment in the opening 45 minutes.
Solomon Kings FC forwards Rafa Lea’i and Jez Lofthouse looked dangerous but for all their hard work, no opening goal was forthcoming.
PNG Hekari FC occasionally probed at the other end, but hearts were in mouths for Marcos Gusmão’s side when goalkeeper Dave Tomare was shown a red card for handling the ball outside the area.
The captain however was given a reprieve when a VAR check proved that no contact had been made between arm and ball.
PNG Hekari almost stole a lead as time ticked over the 45 minutes, when John Orobulu found himself with time and space 12 yards out. The forward, perhaps not realising how much freedom he had been afforded, snatched at his effort and flashed it over the bar.
His team’s attempts at breaking the deadlock were to become even more challenging just after the break however. Ati Kepo, in rather innocuous circumstances, appeared to lash out at Bobbie Leslie. Initially brandishing a yellow card, referee Veer Singh correctly upgraded to red after a VAR check showed Kepo to have connected with Leslie’s face.
Both sides responded to the change in dynamic with substitutions and it was Ben Cahn’s replacements that made the difference.
Japanese forward Sota Higashide, with his first touch since entering the field, connected with a low cross from William Komasi and put Solomon Kings in front.
The lead was almost doubled thanks to Junior David. The forward taking advantage of the additional space available to fire an effort narrowly wide of Dave Tomare’s right-hand post.
Despite being a man down, PNG Hekari battled admirably and on a couple of occasions threatened on their rare breaks forward.
Veteran striker Raymond Gunemba coming closest with an effort from a narrow angle that flew over.
It wasn’t to be however, as Solomon Kings comfortably held on, despite not adding to their lead, securing a crucial opening match victory.
PNG Hekari FC: 0
Solomon Kings FC: 1 (Sota HIGASHIDE 58′)
HT: 0-0
Photo Credit: OFC Media via Phototek