Hekari swamp Coast

PROMISING star Wira Wama scored a double to help Hekari United beat Gigira Laitepo Central Coast 4-0 in the Telikom National Soccer League challenge at the Bisini Soccer Park on Saturday.
Wama of Southern Highlands and Western New Britain parentage scored two goals in the first half while Morobean substitute striker Raymond Gunemba and Kema Jack collected the other two to seal a comfortable victory.
But it was the 22-year-old who stole the lime-light with superb ball control and passes which led to him scoring the two goals.
The shy and soften spoken Wama said after the match it was his first time in the semi-professional league to score a double.
“Yes, it is my first time to score two goals in a game and I am looking forward to scoring more goals as the season progresses,” he said.
Wama picked up his first goal when he pounced on a loose ball after a scramble in the goal area and slipped it pass Central Coast goalkeeper David Aua.
Hekari United dominated from the start with midfielders David Muta and Clifton Aumae taking control from the centre.
The champions’ defensive line was also strengthened with the inclusion of Fijians Taniela Waqa, Pita Bolaitoga, Koriak Upaiga and Andrew Lepani.
If there were any chances of Central Coast’s Leana Geno and Alex Davani pressing to destablise the Hekari midfield it seemed inevitable.
Muta, the maestro this time put a volley which Wama connected to find the target for his second goal that brought celebrations on the paddock for the men in red.
Minutes later, Davani, who was making his debut, curved a classic shot but Hekari United goalkeeper Godfrey Baniau denied him.
Hekari led 2-0 going to the break.
Central Coast with the injection of Desmond Sow came back strongly in the last 25 minutes and continued to press with some good chances and there were glimpses of a comeback but poor options denied them.
Striker Tau Winnie had an opportunity to slip one in but Baniau was alert and denied him again as he stood stunned scratching his head trying to look for answers.
Then Davani created a super pass for Nathaniel Lepani only for him to push it over the bar.
Ila and Abel Ilaitia worked tirelessly to contain Hekari United’s attack but they continued to find lapses to score.
With the time ticking down, Gunemba scored one more goal and Jack collected another to seal the match 4-0.
Hekari team manager Vonnie Kapi Natto said their opponents gave them a good game. However, she said Central Coast had their chances but failed to score while Hekari United capitalised to win the match.
She also gave credit to their opponents as they prepare for the O-League match next Saturday.
Kapi Natto said there was still more work to do before facing the Solomon Islands champions Koloale FC.
“They are a great team,” she said when referring to Koloale FC.
“They are also in the race in our pool and will be out for a win,” she said.