Stars sneak into finals at POM’s expense

Hekari United and Eastern Stars are through to the next stage of Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League after securing the top-two spots in the Southern Conference.
Hekari went 14 rounds undefeated.
Eastern Stars finished the final round on 24 points alongside Port Moresby United, but their superior goal difference got them over the line.
It was unexpected for the National Capital District commission-sponsored Port Moresby United when they faced their fate after playing out a 3-3 draw with Star Mountain.
Francis Moyap’s side will be disappointed about not getting the job done, after holding onto second spot for most of the regular season.
Port Moresby dominated the afternoon, holding a 2–0 lead in the first half.
Determined to put up a fight, Star Mountain scored three goals in the second half to Port Moresby’s one.
In the third game, Hekari proved too strong for Gulf Komara, winning 3–1.
Had Bougainville beat Eastern Stars, they would’ve made stage two. But Anthony Pakakota’s men had other ideas, coming up with a 1-0 win to sneak into the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Hekari coach Jerry Allan says they are expecting stage two to be tougher, with both Southern Conference teams facing New Guinea Islands’ top-two sides.