Amoana fall short to finish third in Southern

CENTRAL Amoana coach Naime Kepi says his side will use the experience gained in the National Soccer League Southern conference competition to come back stronger next season after finishing third on the ladder.
The Central side lost to Hekari United 1-3 in their final round fixture on Saturday at the Papua New Guinea Football Stadium which puts them out of contention for the finals playoff.
Despite sharing the same points with Gulf Komara (17 points), Amoana dropped down to third place as Komara’s goal difference was higher (27) than theirs (12).
“Our aim for this game was to get a draw and that would keep us in second place but unfortunately the team couldn’t adapt to the game plan we made that’s why we came out with a loss,” Kepi said.
“But I thank them for playing great football and making it this far. The problem was our finishing, we played well in the back and midfield but our forwards couldn’t convert the chances we had into goals.
“Coming into this competition, my focus was to develop young players in the team so that we could strengthen the team for next season.
“We can’t put all senior players again and again. Our country need young players as well in representative duties so that was my objective to mentor the young players.”
Naime said the Kaparoko-based team started the season well holding the pole spot but unfortunately bowed out of the competition.
“I think it’s how the players adapt to the system of the game, being consistent and focused as this is the national league,” said Kepi on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Hekari coach David Muta commended Amoana for giving them a run for their money.