Hekari happy with win despite missing out

By ROBINSON LEKA
It was not the win Hekari United had envisaged but it was a victory that the hosts were proud of, said Hekari coach Jerry Allen.
Allen made these comments following Hekari’s 2-1 win over Vanuatu side Galaxy in their final group-A match in the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Champions League.
Hekari were edged out for a spot in the top-two of the group by Galaxy, who managed to keep Allen’s men from winning by at least three goals to keep their OFC campaign alive.
Allen also acknowledged the presence of Hekari’s Brazilian duo Vinicius Kryzozun and Erick Lopes, who had both added depth in the team’s performance.
“Even though we didn’t qualify, we fought really hard and are proud of the win,” he said.
“Vinicius had a bit of a hamstring issue but he stood out very well alongside Michael Foster in the middle.”
Hekari skipper Koriak Upaiga was also happy with the win as he expressed his gratitude towards his teammates and coaching staff.
Upaiga reiterated that although it was tough missing on a spot in the quarterfinals, it was learning curb for the team.
Meanwhile, Upaiga’s Vanuatu counterpart and Galaxy skipper Seiloni Iaruel said his side were fairly new the league and was honoured to play top Oceania clubs.