Hekari settle for draw

By HENRY MORABANG
VAT Yamaros fought back from a 3-1 deficit to draw 3-3 in a stunning performance against Hekari United in the Ox & Palm Women’s National Soccer League at the Bisini Soccer Grounds on Saturday.
Hekari United seemed to have the game in the bag but poor defence and unnecessary fouls cost them dearly.
Yamaros’ seasoned campaigners and Guria’s veteran Miriam Lanta, Samantha Peninsa, Flossie Makeu and flashy Delilah Waive failed to give and push their opponents to limit to deny them a win and leave them shell-shocked.
The West Papuan pair of Lanta and Peninsa still had plenty to offer to women’s football with their superb performance on the field.
Midfielder Peninsa continued to trouble Hekari offensive play while Lanta continued to find lapses and capitalised on the free kicks.
Lanta, who played a leading role, curved a classic shot for a header to narrow the score 3-2 before Makeu fired a shot from close range to level the match with 10 minutes to full time.
Despite the draw, Hekari United should be credited for their improved performance compared with first round performance.
PNG striker Ara Midi with experience under her belt should step up another level to lead the young lasses in the competition.
She is also the only representative player in the Hekari outfit and her teammates will be counting for her expertise.
Midfielder Lorna Tauloi tried desperately for her side but she lacked support from her teammates.
In the opening match, Mungkas defeated University Inter FC 1-0 to sit on top of the table in the Port Moresby WNSL conference.
In Lae, competition front runners Poro beat PNG Power 3-1 while the match between Wau and Bara did not eventuate.
The team from Wau did not travel to Lae for the games.