Auckland edge out Hekari to maintain pole position

Auckland FC held onto top spot after a hard-fought 2-0 win over PNG Hekari FC in Circuit 2 of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Professional League on Saturday, 31 January 2026, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

Licking their wounds after suffering a 5-0 loss to South Melbourne FC in Circuit 1 of round 3 last weekend in Auckland, Hekari showcased a polished performance, giving the ladder-leading Auckland FC a run for their money. 

Both teams displayed skills, grit, and determination in the first half. A couple of goal-scoring opportunities were created for the two sides, but neither team could convert those chances, leaving the half-time score at nil-all.

The intensity peaked in the second half, with Auckland and Hekari strategizing to execute their respective game plans after the breather. However, no team managed to net a goal in the 90-minute physical contest.

An additional 12 minutes were given to decide the winner. Hekari were in the fight until fatigue crept in, which saw Auckland capitalize to score in the 92nd minute through Bailey Ferguson’s volley, and a free penalty kick by Emiliano Tade to seal the deal. 

Though a couple of controversial calls were made, with a few players getting yellow cards, it was a highly entertaining and evenly fought match that went down to the wire. 

Auckland FC coach Luke Casserly praised Hekari’s resilience and credited his men for showing resolve to secure a hard-earned victory.

“It was a hard-fought win. Hekari were excellent. Coming here, we knew that Hekari would make it difficult for us, especially in front of their home fans. From the start of the game, I thought Hekari showed great energy and caused some problems in our backline. It certainly wasn’t easy for us, but I’m delighted to get the points," he said.

"Hekari gave us some difficult moments, but I’m pleased with how positive our players were. The boys (Auckland) were super positive, and we had a good impact from the bench, so I’m pleased that we were able to score the 2 goals to win.”

Captain Reid Drake added: “I think it was a good performance. We had chances to score early, but it did not stop us from getting the job done in the end. We pride ourselves on working all the way through.”

Furthermore, one of Auckland’s players lost his grandfather last week, and the team dedicated the win to him and his family. Captain Drake expressed that they would always support each other during difficult times.

The hot conditions had a toll on the competition’s best attacking side, but coach Casserly and captain Drake said that that should not be an excuse for Auckland to perform, mentioning that they would need to adapt and get accustomed to the weather. 

Coach Casserly explained that he would rest most of the players who played against Hekari and change the lineup in their next fixture, allowing the bench players and those in the squad to prove themselves. 

Despite tasting another tough loss and languishing at the bottom of the ladder, PNG Hekari FC's assistant coach Jerry Allen lauded his men for an improved performance against the undefeated competition leaders.

“I would like to give credit to my boys. We worked hard during the week, knowing that Auckland is a strong team. We came determined and fought until the final whistle, so I’m proud of their performance,” he said. 

Meanwhile, Hekari will meet Vanuatu United tomorrow at 3:30 pm, while Auckland face off against the Solomon Kings on Wednesday (February 4th).