Auckland FC leave it late to sink PNG Hekari in OFC Pro League

Auckland FC scored two goals in stoppage time to maintain their perfect record in the OFC Pro League, breaking the resistance of PNG Hekari FC in a 2–0 win.

The clash brought together the top and bottom teams on the table, with Auckland coming into the match unbeaten from three games, while Hekari were still searching for their first point in the competition.

Backed by strong local support in their first appearance as a professional club, Hekari produced a disciplined first-half performance and held the visitors scoreless at the break. Chances were limited, with veteran striker Raymond Gunemba making his first start of the season and working tirelessly to pressure Auckland’s defence.

Auckland thought they had taken the lead through James Bayliss, but the effort was ruled offside following a VAR review. Hekari goalkeeper Dave Tomare was in fine form, producing two outstanding saves to deny Aiden Carey and keep the scores level. Just before halftime, Rex Naime was initially sent off for a late tackle, but VAR downgraded the decision to a yellow card.

The second half opened up, with both sides creating opportunities. Gunemba tested Auckland goalkeeper Oscar Mason, while Tomare continued his impressive display by denying Auckland captain Reid Drake.

Auckland increased the tempo late in the match by introducing fresh attacking players, and their pressure eventually told in stoppage time. Bailey Ferguson opened the scoring from close range after a long throw-in caused problems in the Hekari box.

Moments later, a handball resulted in a penalty, which Emiliano Tade calmly converted to seal a 2–0 victory and preserve Auckland FC’s unbeaten run in the competition.