Auckland edge gutsy Vanuatu side to reach decider

AUCKLAND United will face off against Hekari United in the final of the OFC Women’s Champions League following a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Tafea FC in an encounter high on drama and tension at the National Stadium in Honiara.
The New Zealand side led early in first spell through a 10th minute goal by Talisha Green from a bullet header following an excellent corner delivery from Danielle Canham.
The closest Tafea came to securing an equaliser in the first half was via tournament top goal scorer Jane Alatoa, whose majestic run through Auckland’s midfield and defence deserved a goal.
United’s goalkeeper Amberley Hollis was on hand, reacting quickly to push the Vanuatu international’s shot wide, in an otherwise relatively quiet half for the stopper.
As the second half wore on, Tafea’s leveller came via a substitute, having only just arrived on the field.
Liyao Eramol acrobatically connected with a scissor kick, burying the ball past the Auckland United goal and sparking huge celebrations from teammates and fans alike.
With penalties on the horizon, the opportunity to win the match fell to Danielle Canham, timing her run perfectly and having the simple task of side-footing into an unguarded net after teammate Piper O’Neill’s low cross from the by-line.
The Kiwi side will now turn their attention to this weekend’s final and a date with Papua New Guinea giants Hekari United at the National Stadium in the second edition of the tournament.