Late drama denies Hekari first win

Vanuatu United FC's Jordy Tasip in possession as PNG Hekari FC's Shane Sakael puts on the defence in round 2 of OFC Pro League at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby *(Image: Shane Wenzlick)*

A penalty deep into stoppage time has robbed PNG Hekari FC of their first victory of the season, as Vanuatu United FC clawed back to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw in the OFC Pro League.

The result provides a bittersweet breakthrough for the home side as they finally secured their first point of the campaign after struggling to find its footing.

Entering the match on the back of three consecutive losses and the sudden resignation of head coach Marcos Gusmão, Hekari appeared vulnerable. That vulnerability was exploited just twelve minutes in. Despite a strong initial tackle by Erick Joe, the clearance fell perfectly for Bill Kaltack, who expertly curled a strike into the far corner to give Vanuatu United the early advantage.

Lars Hopp’s side dominated the opening exchanges, threatening to double their lead as Hekari struggled to retain possession.

The momentum shifted when John Orobulu’s driving run into the box was halted illegally by Vanuatu captain Michel Coulon. Referee Ben Aukwai pointed to the spot, allowing Joseph Joe to step up and confidently stroke the ball into the top corner, leveling the score and igniting the home crowd.

Vanuatu United FC's Kathy Iamak contesting for the ball against PNG Hekari FC's Rex Naime *(Image: Shane Wenzlick)*

Hekari’s resurgence was completed twelve minutes into the second half. Veteran Raymond Gunemba delivered a pinpoint corner, met by a spectacular flying header from defender Erick Joe. The turnaround was complete, and for a moment, the Hekari faithful believed the slump was over.

Despite late pressure, Hekari failed to kill the game, with Vanuatu’s Matt Acton remaining largely untested in the closing stages. Vanuatu United grew bolder, with Owen Smith rattling the crossbar from a free-kick.

Disaster struck in the final moments. Hekari defender Lekima Gonerau was judged to have handled the ball on the goal line, resulting in an immediate penalty. In the ensuing chaos, goal-scorer Erick Joe was shown a second yellow card for his protests, reducing Hekari to ten men.

Owen Smith, repeating his weekend heroics against Tahiti United, remained calm under immense pressure to convert from the spot and rescue a point for the visitors.