It was the side’s eighth straight national title and has gone a long way towards securing their status as kings of Papua New Guinea football.
Hekari coach Jerry Allen was incredibly pleased to see his side retain the title after a long season that was played out alongside the 2013 OFC Champions League.
“This victory was the best way to end another challenging season,” Allen said.
As anticipated both sides bought their A-game game for the final which kept spectators on their feet throughout the 90 minutes.
Both sides had an equal share of support in the stands and while it looked like it could be an even tussle on the pitch it was the Hekari fans who had the last laugh with the side slotting three in the net and keeping the NSL newcomers at arms length.
Port Moresby got straight to work from the whistle and dominated the first 15 minutes constantly playing into Hekari territory but the back line of Daniel Joe, Taniela Waga, Pita Bolaitoga, Koriak Upaiga and goalkeeper Godfrey Baniau kept things under control to deny them a goal.
Those defenders soon turned attackers when Hekari shifted into high gear, proving why they are eight-time champions. Captain David Muta took control of the midfield delivering the ball to his wingers and strikers.
Hekari’s Nigel Dabinyaba got the scoring underway when he picked up a loose clearance and slammed home a goal. The one goal advantage lifted the defending champions who intensified their attack.
After weaving his way into the box on attack Raymond Gunemba was brought down by Port Moresby captain Cyril Muta with Erickson Komeng stepping up to send the ball home from the penalty spot to give Hekari a 2-0 lead going into the break.
The third goal came in the second period after Hekari took advantage of an unsettled Port Moresby defence to send Gunemba through for the third and final goal of the match.
Port Moresby came close to scoring with chances for Max Sengum and Niel Hans, but Hekari’s defence was more than equal to the task of keeping a clean sheet.
The final whistle blew with Hekari celebrating their eighth title with a comprehensive 3-0 victory.
For more on Papua New Guinea football go to www.pngfootball.com.pg

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