OFC Pro League: Solomon Kings upset Auckland FC in Port Moresby

The biggest upset to date in the OFC Pro League has put the Solomon Kings FC on centre stage in Port Moresby, following their 3-1 victory over previously undefeated Auckland FC.

The Kings matched Auckland in every phase of the game, as the heat looked to have affected the Kiwis.

It was the Solomon Islanders' second win in the new league, having beaten PNG Hekari FC 1-0 in the first round in Auckland last month.

With the win the Kings move up again to third spot on the ladder, tied with eight points with South Melbourne.

Oceania Football said Saturday afternoon's clash featured the league's two best defences going head-to-head.

OFC said the Papua New Guinea heat certainly seemed to effect Auckland FC more than it did the Solomon Kings, with the league leaders looking sluggish all throughout the first period, constantly a step behind as Ben Cahn's side moved the ball around the park with confidence.

Sota Higashide and Junior David were on attack early for the islanders and they pressured Auckland keeper Blake Callinan early on.

Higashide scored the first goal of the match in the 41st minute from the penalty spot after referee David Yareboinen pointed to the spot, following a hand ball by Auckland player Daniel Normann.

The side doubled their lead four minutes later, when a Higashide cross was met by Bobby Leslie, who flicked it to the back of the net.

In the second spell, the Kings continued where they left off in the first spell, with Higashide featuring again.

He lifted a the ball over the Auckland FC defence to Jez Lofthouse, who scored from close range in the 55th minute.

Auckland FC continued to work hard, and found a consolation goal through Liam Gillion, who scored in the 87th minute.

Kings' Don Keane said it was an exciting win for them, thanking divine help, and adding he was proud of the team.

"Thank him, God Almighty, for the wonderful strength and victory today for the boys," he said.

"And we're really proud of the boys' performance today."

He also thanked supporters who backed the team throughout the Port Moresby round two campaign.

Captain Phillip Mango thanked fans and supporters who continued to back them.

Mango said Auckland's late goal showed the strength of the team.

"Auckland is a very good team, and they are more technical.

"They are good in finishing as well. But we stuck to our game plan."

Auckland goalscorer Liam Gillion congratulated the Kings for the win, adding they will move on to the next round.

"Tough game today. I think we just got caught on the back foot in the first half," he said.

"Not the best from us today. All credit to them; they played very well."

Gillion admitted the heat was a big challenge but added that was no excuse as all the teams played in the same conditions.

Saturday's second match sees PNG Hekari face South Island United.

Sunday's matches will complete round two in Port Moresby.

That will see South Melbourne take on Vanuatu United FC while Bula FC will face Tahiti United.