The Waikato Rapids opened their OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League 2025 campaign with a comprehensive win over fellow debutants Gulf Komara FC 8-1, in the opening match of the tournament.
Waikato settled quickest, controlling possession through their back three and creating early pressure. Their bright start was rewarded when Casey Sharplin drove into the area and squared the ball for Maxwell Erickson, who finished first-time to open the scoring.
Gulf Komara FC responded with energy on the counter and created several chances but struggled to keep the ball under pressure.
Waikato continued to create the clearer opportunities, with Ericksen and Sharplin continuing to threaten up front. But the New Zealanders struggled to find the finishing touch.
Gulf Komara’s keeper Willie Gerega was busy throughout the half, pulling off a series of strong stops to keep the margin tight. Komara’s best attacking moments came through quick counters led captain Troy Dobbin and Kenneth Arah.
Waikato’s second goal came from a well-worked corner, with substitute Todd Broadhurst delivering a low ball into the area and Hemi Innes bundled it through the goalkeeper’s legs to extend the lead.
Gulf Komara pushed for a response in the final stages, pressuring Waikato in search of their first goal. Captain Troy Dobbin fought hard for in the mid-court, maintaining pressure on the opposition. His pressure paid off striking home through the Waikato keeper’s legs, to bring his team within reach.
But Waikato’s resilience and organisation proved too strong for the Papua New Guinea champions, scoring six goals in the second half to extend their lead and close out a comprehensive victory on opening day.
HT: 2-0
Waikato Rapids: 8 (Maxwell ERICKSEN 10′, 31′, Hemi INNES 11′, OG Troy DOBBIN 33′, Cooper WINK 34′, George DIXON 36′, Keenan HOWARD 37′, Davis VHAVHA 38′)
Golf Komara FC: 1 (Troy DOBBIN 28′)
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek