PHOTO| Star player Madeline Arukau celebrates her opening goal against Avatiu FC. Credit: OFC via Phototek NZ
The Henderson Eels women’s football club had an excellent start to their campaign at the OFC Women’s Champions League 2024, beating Avatiu FC of Cook Islands 2-0 at the Lawson Tama stadium.
In the second half, Madeline Arukau and Ella Vakatao scored a goal each, giving the home fans something to cheer about.
In the first half, both teams were evenly matched.
Although Avatiu FC showed some determination in attack, the experienced backline of Eel’s managed to hold them off.
Eels had several attempts on target, with Veronica Tolivaka and Madeline Arukau creating some threats in Avatiu FC’s backline.
It was in the 54th minute that Arukau made the difference, scoring a goal. She then turned provider for Vakatao, who scored in the 61st minute.
Despite a slow start to the match head coach Godfrey Manehihoa was satisfied.
“It’s always good to start with a win, especially for the first game in an international tournament like this,” Manehihoa told the local media.
“I reminded the players that this is a competition, and our first match is very important. They executed well according to what we planned for the match.”
The win put Eels currently top of Group A following Tafea FC and Hekari United 1 all draw in the opening match day – and will take on Hekari United on Wednesday 13 at 12:00 pm in what will be a crucial match for the home side.
-SIFF Media
