Meanwhile in the women’s league, competition newcomers Adidas have moved to the top of the table and will be looking to stay there once football activities recommence next weekend after the Easter break.
The road to the men’s finals wasn’t easy for Kiwi or Moaula with both teams winning their respective semi finals 2-1.
Kiwi were first to book a spot in the inaugural final, courtesy of Joseph (Harry) Hoeflich and Lionel Taylor goals in the first 45minutes. Silao Malo’s second half strike reignited Apia attempts to match Kiwi’s first-half double, but the side couldn’t find an equalizer.
In the other cup semi, the Moaula-Cruz rivalry was fierce. A dazzling double by To’o (Fereti) Gosche, set up by younger brother Fitu, dashed Cruz’ hopes for finals grandeur. Although Geoffrey Strickland’s second-half goal heightened the pressure, his side couldn’t complete the double to force extra time.
Meanwhile in the first plate semi-final, Moataa SC are thanking their lucky stars that Jarrell Atimalala polished off their one-touch phase with a breakthrough goal in extra time. Their opponents Togafuafua Saints can only dream of what could have been. Robert Hellasoe fired the opening goal, just four minutes into the match and at half-time the Saints were up 2-1. But Moataa turned up the heat when they equalized in the closing minutes sending the match into extra time where Atimalala’s stunner secured Moataa’s place in the plate final.
Moataa will face Goldstar Sogi, who won 4-0 over Vaivase-Tai.
In the women’s premier league, Adidas came up against Moaula United, who had enjoyed an upset win over Cruz Azul the week before. Adidas got down to business with Alofa Mamea nailing a low shot which spun out of Moaula goalkeeper Annie Betham’s grasp and into the goal. Hana Malo followed up with a chip from outside the right corner of the penalty box which dipped just enough to double their lead. Adidas’ third goal came from striker Simolo Sa’u Tomi who adjusted well from her usual central defender position to play upfront and provide much-needed support for Mamea and Malo.
In the other women’s match, Cruz Azul returned to form thrashing Goldstar Sogi, 5-1.
Story courtesy FFS Media
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