Star ready for Hekari

By HENRY MORABANG
EASTERN Star’s new signing Felix Bondaluk is expected to shine in the much-anticipated Telikom NSL match against reigning champions, MRDC Hekari, in Port Moresby tomorrow.
Bondaluk was acquired from Madang Fox.
The former University striker seemed to gel well with lethal leftfooter, Raymond Gunemba upfront for Star.
Star’s assistant Steven Mune yesterday said the team was looking forward to taking on the NSL giants.
“Our preparation has been good with no injuries and the players are focused on the job,” he said.
Mune said new coach Eddie Omokirio had made a big difference in the club’s approach, and had added a new dimension to the Star set up.
Star were beaten 3-1 by Hekari in the opening match and will be out to even the ledger.
Star boss Joe Ealadona said: “We have great respect for Hekari and I’ve stressed to the boys to play to a plan and structure and let the results come.
“This is a must-win match for both sides but especially for us (Star) if we want to be in contention for the minor premiership and a shot at the OFC.”
Omokirio will rely on his Solomon Islands compatriots Timothy Joe at fullback, and flankers Caroll Kakate and Paul Walei to lead the Stars.
In form defender Joe will be backed by his skipper Cyril Muta, Jeremy Yasasa and Joshua Niebo
In the midifeild, Bogia native Adrian Komu will combine with Michael Foster while Kakate and Walei rove the flanks.
Mune said Bondaluk and Gunemba would control the front.
Hekari will be counting on their big guns to ensure they have the last laugh.
Coach Jerry Allen will bank on solid defenders Alwin Singh and Koriak Upaiga while David Muta in the midfield and Tuimasi Manuca in the front for the Kutubu team have an ominous look.
Hekari came back in the last 10 minutes to force a draw against Vanuatu’s Amicale last week and are expected to come out much stronger against Star.
In other matches,  Madang Fox face Gigira Laitepo Morobe at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium in Lae while youngsters Besta PNG United travel up the Kassam Pass to Goroka to take on Petro Souths.