United claim first win

By LARRY ANDREW
MOROBE United bounced back from last week’s 3-1 loss at the hands of Toti City to register their first win with a 6-0 victory against Madang’s Laiwaden.
In the main fixture of the National Soccer League Northern Conference, Lahi United collected the three points with a 2-0 win over Besta PNG United.
United opened the scoring after Freddy Steven’s kick deflected off Laiwaden goalkeeper Mikes Gewa into the path of Russell Nirik, who put the ball in the net.
Nirik added a second goal in the 58th minute after receiving a pass from substitute Max Efale.
The floodgates then opened with Morobe adding four more goals through Alex Kamen (2), Eliude Fugre and Daniel Tobem to run out comfortable victors.
Lahi, after a goalless draw with Markham in the first round, regrouped to come away with their first victory in the semi-professional competition.
Besta had opportunities to score but Francis Yasasa — with assistance from Matthew Bokari, David Platti and Sami Rufus — defended well to deny the Papua New Guinea Football Association Academy players from finding the net.
Lahi’s hard work in putting pressure on Besta saw Albert Morgan Jr scoring the first goal from outside the box for a 1-0 lead.
Lahi, after changes in midfield and attack, added their second goal through Gabusi Matthew.
Lahi were able to hold onto their two-goal advantage until the final whistle.
Lahi chairman and owner Geob Gariki said the side had been working on their midfield and attack during training.
Northern Conference results: Morobe United 6 Laiwaden 0, Lahi United 2 Besta PNG United 0, Markham 2 Tusbab Stallions 1.