By JASON SOM KAUT
INSPAC Rapatona displaced Hekari United on the National Soccer League ladder after their convincing 2-0 victory over Besta Madang Fighters at the PNGFA soccer academy at 11-Mile outside Lae on Saturday.
The win now pushes Rapatona ahead of the pack with 15 points over Hekari United on 14 and Laitepo Blue Kumuls (13), after their 3-3 draw.
The Kisakiu Posman-coached side started the game strongly having to contend with the scorching sun and a fiery fight from Besta Fighters.
Besta Fighters were jittery in the first 10 minutes but managed to halt Rapatona’s continuous onslaught in the first half.
Raps, however, could not find the net as Fighters keeper Shane Shamuga denied them with brilliant saves.
Lack of ball control saw Fighters give away ball possession to Rapatona, but they failed to capitalised on it.
Both teams created opportunities before the break but could not find the back of the net.
Rapatona was awarded a free kick just before half-time that was headed inches over the bar.
Besta immediately counter-attacked down the right flank but failed to score.
Rapatona started the second half strongly as a good cross from the right flank found forward Selan Elijah’s head for the game’s first goal.
Besta Fighters then missed two golden opportunities that cost them the game.
The game proceeded as pressure increased in tandem with the blistering sun.
Rapatona’s second goal came from a free kick outside the penaltybox that saw Lewan Bob put his best foot forward to the delight of supporters.
Captain and stopper Russel Inai gave credit to the Fighters for putting up a good fight saying the game was tougher than their face-off during round one.
“It was very hot but the field condition is good, credit to all the boys for putting up a good performance,” he said.
He said they were looking forward to their next game against Blue Kumuls in Lae this weekend.