Extra Bula FC has gone down 2-nil to Auckland FC in their second OFC Pro League Leaders Group clash at Eden Park, with the side unable to recover after conceding two first-half goals.
Head Coach Stephane Auvray says he is disappointed with the result but he is still happy that the players gave their all in this match.
He says every match is an opportunity for the players to learn and they will do so and get better for the next match.
Auckland FC struck early when Bula FC’s Scott Wara lost his footing, allowing Jonty Bidois to score a goal in the 7th minute.
The home side doubled their lead in the 36th minute through Everton O’Leary, putting the Bula warriors under pressure heading into halftime.
In the second half, both teams created chances, but neither side was able to convert as Auckland FC maintained control to secure the win.
The result adds to Bula FC’s difficult start, after they also went down 1-nil to South Island United in their opening match.
The team will now turn their focus to their next match against South Melbourne FC at 3pm on Tuesday while Auckland FC will attempt to win against South Island United at 7pm. Both matches will be played at Eden Park.
The competition format sees the top three teams from the Leaders Group qualifying for the semi-finals, while the fourth-placed side will face the winner of the Challengers Group, where the bottom four teams compete.
The semi-finals are scheduled for 20th May at GO Media Stadium, with the final to be played on 24th May at Eden Park.
The OFC Pro League will also determine who represents Oceania at the annual FIFA Intercontinental Cup™ and the quadrennial FIFA Club World Cup™.
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