Stars defeat Chebu to set up tie with Hekari

TWO second-half goals were enough for the Eastern Stars to see off New Guinea Islands Conference champions Chebu AROB 2-0 at the Papua New Guinea Football Stadium in Port Moresby yesterday.
Veteran Andrew Lepani and Riggie Togubai were on target to send Anthony Pakakota’s men through to face Hekari United in a home-and-away series over the next two weekends, starting on Sunday (3pm kick-off).
“In the first half, we were a bit complacent and shaky in our confidence,” Pakakota told The National last night.
“This gave AROB all the confidence to play.
“In the second half, we recovered and played our game and got the result.
“The Stars are a cohesive team.
“We play accordingly to the club’s philosophy and motto ‘stars never die’. We rise and fall together.
“AROB are physical team and will always compete for the 50/50 balls.
“They’re are intense and can attack as a unit.”
The Stars now turn their attention to Hekari, who went through the regular seasion undefeated, for a spot in the June 1 grand final at the Sir John Guise Stadium.
“Forty-eight hours’ rest is too short,” Pakakota said.
“Another 24 hours would have been great.
“Hekari have an advantage of a week’s rest.
“But it is what it is, and we are looking forward for the contest.
“We can only focus on improving our game and implement all our tasks in attack, defence and transitional play, and we should give Hekari a contest.
“I urge the Milne Bay community to come and support their team.
“Come cheer us on and be the stars for David against Goliath.”
In the other match, defending Champions Toti City face Morobe United at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium in Lae tomorrow (3pm kick-off).