The Waikato Rapids made it two wins from two with a disciplined 5-1 result over Mataks FC at the OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League 2025.
Waikato controlled the early phases, pressing high and forcing Mataks into rushed passes. Casey Sharplin threatened often with clean looks from the top of the court, as Mataks struggled to hold the ball and turned it over in key areas.
Mataks captain Clifford Misitana helped his side grow into the match, creating space on the wing and setting up good openings for Owen Bunabo, who had multiple shots on target.
Their quick counters worked well and pushed Waikato back, but their finishing continued to trouble them. Waikato stayed patient on defence, with captain Aidan Robson and Casey Sharplin anchoring the defence and linking play through the back court.
The breakthrough came when Hemi Innes surged down the left before finding Benjamin Bordin who calmly finished, and a second came from a defensive intercept through Maxwell Erickson, squaring it to Cooper Wink for a simple finish.
Mataks returned to the court in the second half with a renewed energy, putting the Rapids under pressure and pushing the ball up court well creating some chances. Waikato remained composed, and were able to punish the Mataks through a quick counter on the left flank, as Keenan Howard calmly slotted home to put them up 3-0.
The Mataks’ pressure persisted, scoring their first goal of the match through Bunabo who was a constant threat up court, bringing the Mataks back into the match. But Waikato remained composed in defence, extending their lead 5-1 with two goals in the final 10 minutes to secure their second win of the tournament.
The Rapids will face the undefeated Southern Legions FC in their next match, while Mataks will look to bounce back from their two losses in their match with Gulf Komara FC.
HT: 2-0
Mataks FC: 1 (Owen BUNABO 24′)
Waikato Rapids: 5 (Benjamin BORDIN 15’, Cooper WINK 19’, Keenan HOWARD 22′, Hemi INNES 31′, Casey SHARPLIN 31′)
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek