EXTRA Bula FC displayed a commanding performance during the first half, coupled with precise execution at pivotal moments, as they claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over PNG Hekari FC in Round 3 of the OFC Pro League.
From the very start, Bula FC asserted themselves in the match, showcasing sharpness and control that undoubtedly set the tone early on. The breakthrough for Bula came in the 11th minute when Filipe Baravilala leveraged space on the right flank, delivering an accurate cross that Fergus Gillion assisted forward for Thomas Dunn, who finished clinically from close range. After a thorough VAR review to check for offside, the goal was validated, recognizing the team’s dominant start.
Building on this momentum, the coach Stephane Auvray’s side doubled their lead in the 35th minute through a well-executed counterattack. After defending a free kick from PNG Hekari, the ball swiftly transitioned to Kaile Auvray, who demonstrated impressive speed and composure as he bypassed his defender and fired a precise shot into the near post, leaving goalkeeper Dave Tomare unable to react.
Despite a spirited response from PNG Hekari just before halftime, with Ati Kepo finding the net, Bula’s solid foundation in the first half allowed them to maintain an advantageous position as they headed into the break.
The second half saw PNG Hekari step up their possession and pressure; however, Bula FC’s defense held firm, even amidst injury challenges, ultimately securing the match. Head coach Auvray reflected on the performance, underscoring the significance of their first-half display while acknowledging areas in need of improvement. “I liked the first 45 minutes. We should have scored one more to make the game easier for us. Second half, I didn’t like it, so we still have work to do. I’m very happy for the players because they’ve been working hard for many games. But tomorrow, we get back to work,” he remarked.
Auvray also highlighted the club’s commitment to developing young talent as part of their long-term vision. “We had Ibraheem playing at left winger today; he is 18. It’s important to integrate our young players. We have a long-term project. In the second half, we also had Ayman playing left central back, who is 20. It was a difficult start, but he became more comfortable; I’m happy for them,” he stated.
With this victory, Bula FC continues to gather momentum in the competition, focusing on refining their performance while sustaining their winning form. They will face Solomon Kings FC tomorrow in their third match of the OFC Pro League’s round three, aiming to build on their successful outing.
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