Hagen Central, Hekari earn right to rep Highlands

THE Besta FA Cup Highlands men’s winners Hekari Soccer Association and Hagen Central have earned the right to represent the region in the finals in Lae from Oct 30 to Nov 2.
The regional qualifiers in Wabag, Enga, on Saturday saw the top-two pool-A men’s teams Hagen Central and Kainantu play against pool-B winners Hekari Association and Enga.
Hekari went up against Kainantu and claimed a 2-0 win while Hagen Central defeated Enga 2-1.
According to match commissioner Alex Toki, Hagen Central were boosted by Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League star Koriak Upaiga (Hekari United) and Andrew Apo.
“The experience of Upaiga and Apo really helped Hagen Central dominate every game,” Toki said.
“The Hekari Soccer Association also had the experience of former Hekari United and Madang striker Samuel Kini.
“They were guided by Mathew Witu, who is a former Hekari United coach.”
In the women’s division, Enga advance to the finals after finishing first while another team is yet to be confirmed.
Toki said Kagua Erave and Hagen Central did not complete their match due to a dispute, hence they couldn’t confirm the second women’s team to qualify.
He said the organising committee would make a decision on the matter.