Wawens claim win in Morobe derby

By LARRY ANDREW
Morobe Wawens scored two second-half goals to beat Morobe United 2-0 in the second round of the Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League (NSL) at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium in Lae on Saturday.
After losing 0-1 to newcomers Kutubu in the first round, Wawens put on a strong performance but were evenly matched by United as both teams played out a scoreless first half.
Each team had enough possession and chances to score goals but strong defence kept both sides at bay.
With a handful of vocal supporters, United’s Oberth Simon, Bruce Tiampo, Judah Asar, Freddy Steven and Emmanuel Simongi were great in attack.
However, Wawens goalkeeper Jason Bendi was in fine form, saving a number of United shots on goal.
The match intensified in the second half and the referee had little choice but to give yellow cards to players from both teams.
Richard Waffi was shown a red card and was sent off, leaving Wawens with 10 men.
But that did little to dampen Wawens’ spirits to stay in contest with Sombo Goro scoring the opener in the 52 minute.
Ten minutes later, substitute Joshua Paget dribbled around United goalkeeper Vagi Koniel to add Wawens’ second goal and seal victory.
Wawens coach Bob Morris told The National that the team were happy with win after losing their first game against Kutubu.
“We worked on our structures during the week and were confident of winning. Mumeng youngster Raynold Gwaitep was used up front alongside Sombo Goro and Barty Kerobin to attack United’s defence.
“The game was more structured today with my players executing what I told them, especially our set pieces.
“Despite dropping to 10 men, we kept our structure and defence to earn the win.” United coach Jack Jonathan said his men needed to be consistent and work on their combinations after two straight losses.
“With the NSL heading into a recess, we will need to work hard on a lot areas.”
Result: Wawens 2 (Sombo Goro, Joshua Paget) United 0. HT: 0-0 at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium, Lae.