Hekari down Komara in nail-biter

The top of the table clash in round 5 of the Premier Soccer League (PSL) on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, at PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby, saw the Hekari United FC come from behind to edge the Gulf Komara FC with a 2-1 margin, sending the game to a grandstand finish.

Following that gallant triumph over Komara, Hekari are the only team to remain undefeated in the 2024 PSL season, registering four wins and a draw, and fancying their chances for a back-to-back championship. They sit first on the ladder with 13 points.

On the contrary, Komara tasted their first loss after putting in stellar performances in the last four rounds. They are sitting on the second spot, recording three wins and one draw, with 10 competition points.

As anticipated, the match kicked off in a fiery start, which saw both teams rise to the challenge and delivered a highly entertaining performance. After a scoreless contest for about 20 minutes, the high-flying Komara outfit scored a goal through Iamo Manu in the second quarter. That was the solo goal at half time.

The second stanza was a one-way traffic contest, as Hekari regrouped and dominated the field position and ball possession. Through relentless attack, the competition leaders bagged an equalizer through Ati Kepo, followed by Pala Paul’s match-winner to put the nail in the coffin with a 2-1 win.

Coach David Muta said although they could not find the back of the net in the first half, he was happy that the players bounced back in the second spell and beat the courageous Komara side.

“In the first half, we had a lot of chances but we did not score. However, we polished up our performance in the second half and scored two goals to defeat Komara. I’m pleased with the win but we still have more work to do,” coach Muta said.

The reigning champions (Hekari United FC) will host the Lae City Dwellers in round 6 of the Premier Soccer League competition on Saturday, August 10th, at PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby.