Vanuatu United FC and Auckland FC settled for a 0-0 draw in their OFC Pro League clash at the National Stadium in Honiara, marking their second encounter of the season.
Vanuatu United carried confidence into the match after handing South Melbourne FC their first defeat of the competition, while Auckland FC looked to continue their strong campaign, having defeated Solomon Kings FC 1-0 at the weekend.
Auckland FC controlled most of the possession in the first-half at Honiara’s National Stadium, creating the better chances with Aston Burns and James Bayliss threatening down the left, while Vanuatu United’s main goal threat Alex Saniel kept Auckland FC’s defence on high alert with his pace on the counter.
Vanuatu United sat in a solid low-block in the early stages to counter their opponents pressing and width, keeping the visitors to half-chances. Auckland FC’s defence held firm though against the pacey counter-attacks, with Aidan Carey anchoring their backline.
Reid Drake came close to scoring the opener late in the half for the New Zealand side, as he was fed from the right to set up a close-range effort, but the ball landed in the hands of a grateful Matt Acton.
In the second period, the sides ramped up the intensity in search of a breakthrough with both coming close to scoring in the opening minutes. Auckland FC’s Drake fired a shot from close range that drifted wide, while Vanuatu United’s Kerry Iawak and Saniel tested the keeper with two powerful strikes as they pushed for the opener.
As the heat and fatigue set in, both coaches injected some energy off the bench. Auckland FC substitute Tass Mourdoukoutas produced a close chance, with his header from a set-play denied by Matt Acton. Vanuatu United’s Kathy Iamak combined well with Alex Saniel up front, with their pace and power a threat without truly testing Oscar Mason in goal.
The league leaders continued to threaten through set-pieces and corners, but were unable to convert with Vanuatu United’s defence holding firm to secure a well-earned point.
Both teams finish Round 4 in Honiara with a win and a draw each, and now head to Fiji for their remaining fixtures.
Vanuatu United FC: 0
Auckland FC: 0
HT: 0-0
Photo Credit: OFC Media via Phototek