by Shane Saroya – EM TV Sport, Port Moresby
Hekari United came away with a close win over PKA Rapatona after striker, Tommy Sammy, scored in the 67th minute to give Hekari 2 goals to 1 over Rapatona.
The win sees Hekari United stay on top of the ladder after round seven of the Telikom National Soccer League.
Rapatona found themselves up against competition leaders Hekari United in the most anticipated match of the evening.
Hekari backing up from a 4-2 win over Gigira Laitepo in round six, under the guidance of Assistant Coach, Matthew Witu, who was further boosted by the return of Coach, Jarry Allen, after brief visit to his native Island, Solomon Island.
Rapatona on the other hand fielded the same side that defeated Erema 3-1 last week and gave Hekari a tough challenged from start to finish.
Hekari’s Wira Wama scorered in the 14’minute mark of the first half giving Hekari an early lead.
The second half saw Midfielder, Henry Ronny, equalizes for PKA Rapatona with a brilliant taken free kick in the 59’minute.
Rapatona held their backline defence keeping Hekari Fullback turn striker Koriak Upaiga at bay though at times coming so close to score.
However the deadlock was broken on the 67’ minute mark when Tommy Semmy places Hekari back in front by a superb strike.
Hekari held on to the lead till fulltime, despite counter attacks from Rapatona charges up front.
Coach Jerry Allan said, Rapatona were a good side with a handful of talented players really putting pressure on Hekari’s defence.
However his team took every game seriously and stuck to their games plan to win and stay on top of the competition ladder.
PKA Rapatona coach Max Foster however was pleased with his side’s performance despite going down by a goal to Heakri.
