Hekari rout Tukoko

By BUSTIN ANZU
NATIONAL soccer kings Hekari United are confident of defending the Telikom National Soccer League (NSL) title for the fifth season if their 5-0 thrashing of Tukoko University in Lae on Saturday is anything to go by.
Hekari United took control at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium with two first half goals and three in the second half.
But it was local wonder boy Raymond Gunemba who stole the show with a double in injury time.
The Morobean powerful left-footer found the target twice within five  minutes to injury time to give Hekari United a comfortable victory.
The visitors were the first to score when Wira Wama hit the target after picking up a cross from David Muta.
Minutes later, the second goal was scored – this time from Kema Jack – continued to mount pressure on Tukoko University.
Jack scored his second goal in the second half before Gunemba’s double sank the hearts of the home crowd.
The result disappointed fans in Lae who were looking forward to an even tussle after learning of Besta (PNG) United’s 2-1 victory over Hekari United in Port Moresby recently.
But Tukoko University failed to emulate their neighbours’ feat.
Gunemba, Jack, Wama, Muta, Neil Hans, sweeper Andrew Lepani and substitute Ian Yanum were in superb control.
Tukoko University skipper Sowera Guti who starred in the centre, Kohu Liem, Gerard Lashel and replacement Matthew Bogari put up a good fight but lacked cohesion. Even Lashel tried running the flanks to create chances but the visitors restricted them from taking shots at goal.
Tukoko University’s goalkeeper Danny Kali should be given a pat on the back for his outstanding saves which could otherwise have extended their opponents’ lead to an embarrassing score-line.
The win now puts Hekari United in a comfortable position heading into the festive season.
In the other match, City Pharmacy Eastern Stars beat MMJV Bulolo United 2-1.
The season resumes on Jan 14.