Hekari to face Labasa

By PATRICIA KEAMO
HEKARI United are aiming to qualify for their maiden Oceania Football Confederation Women’s Champions League grand final when they take on Labasa FC in the semifinal today at the Solomon Islands National Stadium.
The Eric Komeng-coached side have been hard at work perfecting their combinations for the clash against the Fijian side.
In the other semifinal, Auckland United will take on Vanuatu’s Tafea FC at 2pm to decide the grand finalist for Saturday’s final. Komeng, who has been tweaking his first 11 lineup in the group stage, is likely to make a few changes on his starting side to cater for the fast-paced Labasa side while also creating chances for his finishers.
Fidelma Watpore is expected to maintain her stance guarding the goal with Serah Waida, Georgina Bakani and Raynata Samuel manning the defence.
Phylis Pala will continue her form in the midfield with either Mavis Singara and Christie Maneu assisting her in shoring the middle third. Michaelyne Butubu has been exceptional upfront pairing up with skipper Marie Kaipu. The pair will be tasked to put away Hekari’s chances with a possible injection of Anashtasia Gunemba while Nenny Elipas, Hortance Kimit and Cynthia Bangita will come off the bench.
Komeng, whose aim for the tournament was to reach the final is anticipating a challenge today.
He said he has an injury-free squad that were looking forward to taking on Labasa.
“We know how we’re going to play Labasa. We’ve been working on our team combinations and hopefully we can get our finishing right up front so we can play better and score goals,” said Komeng.
“It means a lot for us to make it into the semifinal, last year we didn’t get a chance to play finals because it was a round robin tournament.
“Knowing the quality I have in the team and to make it to the semifinals, it means a lot and we’re excited and looking forward to the match. Hopefully we can go one better this time.”