Besta can Hekari
The National, Tuesday April 7th, 2015
By HENRY MORABANG
BESTA United caused a major upset in the Telikom National Soccer League by beating reigning premiers Hekari 2-1 at Bomana Oval, outside Port Moresby, on Saturday.
Hekari had to struggle in the second half when their striker Tommy Semmy was struck in the head by Besta goalkeeper Vagi Koniel in what could have been a red-card offence.
Koniel, copped a similar charge against Oro’s Patrick Aisa two weeks ago, which resulted in their loss to the Northern side.
Besta put on a strong performance against Hekari in a physical encounter which resulted in the flashing of several yellow cards to players of both sides.
Hekari flanker Esira Tonga was sent off by referee Albert Maru for a professional foul.
Tonga used his hands to stop a possible goal.
The ensuing penalty saw Freddy Steven pot the winning goal for Besta.
With the guidance of PNG men’s coach Ricki Herbert, Besta played their hearts out, stopping the experienced Hekari side.
Midfielder John Ray, who was unfortunate to miss out on the man-of-the-match award, put on an outstanding performance.
Playing in his new position at central midfield, he was a beacon in coordinating and the distribution of balls to his players.
The first half of the match was evenly contested with a goal each.
Hekari dangerman Semmy found the net in the 36th minute before Steven equalised in the 47th minute.
In the second half, Hekari tried their best, with Semmy leading from the front and was well supported by Emmanuel Airem and Tutizama Tanito from the flanks.
Hekari pressed for more goals until Semmy went off injured.
Replacement Kema Jack had several opportunities to extend the score but his timing was poor.
Besta used their only chance with Tonga’s professional foul.
Emmanuel Yawi took the penalty which was stopped by Hekari goalkeeper Leslie Kalai but Steven timed the deflection to extend the lead 2-1. Besta 2: (Freddy Steven 47, 57penalty,) Hekari 1: (Tommy Semmy 36). Halftime 1-1; Unofficial standings: Hekari 20, Lae City 16, FC POM 12, Madang 12, Oro 10, Admiralty 7 and Besta 7.