Solomon Islands international Rovu Boyers is up and running in the OFC Pro League after scoring a dramatic late winner for South Island United in their 2–1 victory over PNG’s Hekari United FC on Saturday night at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
The 22-year-old midfielder came on as a second-half substitute, making only his second appearance for the New Zealand side, and proved the hero in injury time.
With the scores locked at 1–1 late in the match, a corner kick from South Island United found its way into the six-yard box.
After a brief scramble, Boyers reacted quickest, poking the ball home from close range to secure all three points and South Island United’s second win of the campaign.
Earlier, Ryan Feutz had given South Island United the lead from the penalty spot in the 36th minute, sending his side into the halftime break with a 1–0 advantage.
Hekari United responded almost immediately after the restart.
In the 47th minute, Ati Kepo set up fellow Solomon Islander John Orobulu, who calmly finished to score his first professional goal and level the match.
South Island United were then reduced to ten men in the 80th minute after captain Christian Gray was sent off for denying Orobulu a clear goal-scoring opportunity just outside the penalty area.
Despite being a man down and spending long periods under pressure in the second half, South Island United made the most of their limited chances, with Boyers delivering the decisive moment deep into stoppage time.
Speaking after the match, Boyers praised his teammates and coaching staff for their effort.
“Credit to all my teammates. They put in a lot of work today and gave 110 percent. I just came on to contribute and give the team an edge, and I’m really happy about it,” he said.
The midfielder also thanked his family and supporters back home for their continued support throughout his football journey.
Attention now turns to Round 3 of the OFC Pro League, with Boyers and South Island United looking to build on the win when the next circuit kicks off in Melbourne on 21 February.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
