Skipper Aisa forces draw with Hekari

By PATRICIA KEAMO
A LATE Patrick Aisa goal helped Port Moresby Strikers force a 2-2 draw with ladder leaders Hekari United on Saturday.
The Strikers opened scoring in the first half of the National Soccer League’s round-six clash through Bruce Tiampo before Hekari evened the scores with a penalty shot by Daniel Joe.
Both sides came into the second half with increased intensity and attempts on goal as Hekari forward Koriak Upaiga netted a goal for his side before Aisa’s effort ended the match in a draw.
Strikers coach Philemon Tamari said they were not expecting a loss on Saturday but took the field with the aim to win or settle for a draw.
“I’m happy with my boys, given they were playing against a very experienced team, considering that a lot of the boys are very young,” Tamari said. “We stuck to our game plan, we didn’t get intimidated in any way.
“We gave our best. I expected us to come out winners but unfortunately it ended in a draw.
“Having said that, it was still a very good result for my boys.”
Tamari said their performance had boosted their confidence to improve in the second round of the season.
“It’s a big boost for us to see where we are in terms of being competitive in the season so it helps in our preparation leading up to the next round,” he said.
Tamari expressed disappointment with a refereeing decision on a penalty awarded to Hekari in the first half.
“I wasn’t happy with the penalty given (to Hekari), my understanding of the rules is that if the player in front has the ball and when you clash with him, that’s a penalty,” he said.
“But all the players went down without the ball and on the reverse end of it, I got a yellow card.
“My player had the ball and he was on the attack (when he got hit and fell in the 18-yard box), that was (supposed to be) a penalty.”
Strikers goalkeeper Ishmael Pole was injured and taken to the hospital following a clash with Hekari striker Ati Kepo while attempting a save from a corner kick.
Pole is reported to undergo surgery today for a dislocated shoulder from the hit.
Meanwhile, Hekari head coach Erickson Komeng said his side had more work to do following Saturday’s game.
“Every team that play against Hekari come out strong, so I think they (Strikers) were the better side today,” he said.
“Even though we were leading 2-1, they still gave us a hard game and forced a draw.