Hekari Utd edge Tukoko University 1-0

By RIGGO NANGAN
REIGNING champions MRDC Hekari United’s chance of maintaining the top spot in the Telikom National Soccer League competition table look set after scraping home with a 1-0 win over a strong Tukoko University in Lae on Saturday.
But it was Hekari’s goalkeeper Godfrey Baniau, who got the praise on the day for saving a number of shots on target, some of which were from very difficult angles. With two more games remaining, Hekari are certain to retain the minor premiership and have another crack at the Oceania League next season.
It must have been what the team had in mind when they ran onto soccer pitch at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium and the sparkling football they were known for went straight into motion from the start.
The visitors were well in control of the game from the start, in several occasions, catching their opponents off guard and leaving openings for them to take advantage and shoot for goal.
However, Tukoko University goalkeeper Pinto Narum was outstanding saving most of the shots as the visitors continued to bombard their goal mouth.
Tukoko were still trying to get themselves organised when the visitors slotted in a goal through midfielder Abraham Iniga after  26 minutes.
It was an even tussle in the second half but neither of the teams  could find he net.