Kings of the heat: Solomon Kings hand Auckland FC first defeat
Solomon Kings FC produced a tactical masterclass in the blistering Port Moresby heat on Saturday, dismantling league leaders Auckland FC 3-1 to shatter the New Zealanders' unbeaten streak.
What was billed as a cagey tactical battle between the OFC Pro League’s two most disciplined defenses quickly turned into a showcase for Ben Cahn’s side, who looked far more comfortable in the punishing humid conditions at the Santos National Football Stadium.
The opening stages set the tone. While Auckland appeared uncharacteristically sluggish, the Kings moved the ball with precision and intent. Japanese playmaker Sota Higashide and Junior David were early threats, forcing Auckland’s young shot-stopper, Blake Callinan, into a series of acrobatic saves to keep the score level.
The deadlock finally broke when Higashide’s deft flicked pass was handled in the area by Daniel Normann. Referee David Yareboinen had no hesitation pointing to the spot, allowing Higashide to step up and coolly dink the ball down the middle to give the hosts a deserved lead.
The Kings doubled their advantage just before the interval. Higashide was again the architect, ghosting into the box before squaring a low cross for Bobby Leslie, who nipped ahead of his marker to prod the ball home.
Auckland coach Luke Casserly looked to his bench at half-time, making two tactical shifts to inject energy, but the Kings refused to relinquish control.
The knockout blow arrived shortly after the restart. Higashide, operating in the pockets between the lines, floated a perfectly weighted ball over the static Auckland defense. Australian winger Jez Lofthouse cushioned the pass with a clinical first touch before finishing smartly past Callinan.
The margin could have been greater had Higashide’s thunderous long-range effort not rattled the woodwork minutes later.
Auckland FC did manage to claw back a consolation goal late in the piece. Emiliano Tade found Liam Gillion, whose finish was initially flagged for offside before a VAR review correctly overturned the decision.
Despite the loss, the New Zealand-based club remains perched at the top of the table. However, the victory sees Solomon Kings FC surge into third place, now level on points with South Melbourne FC and firmly back in the title conversation.