Auckland United FC defeat Hekari Women FC to win the OFC Women’s Champions League
Third successive meeting between the sides in the final
Will represent Oceania at the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup
Auckland United FC have been crowned continental champions with a 3-1 win over Papua New Guinea outfit Hekari Women FC at the National Stadium in Honiara.
The New Zealanders had come out on top in their two previous meetings at this stage, and they proved too strong again as they sealed their place in the after they also represented OFC at last year's tournament.
Auckland took the lead with a deft header from Alaina Granger after she latched onto a cross into the box from Piper O'Neill. Hekari levelled the scoring through Nenny Elipas who slammed the ball over the line from close range, before Sasha Adamnson restored Auckland's lead with a curling strike from outside the box.
Midfielder Aniela Jensen ensured Auckland would claim a third successive continental crown when she toe-poked the ball over the line late in the game as Hekari struggled to clear their lines.
Victory also secures the club a place in the upcoming edition of the FIFA Women's Champions Cup.
The tournament brings together the six continental club champions from the full season preceding the competition, with Arsenal Women FC claiming last year's inaugural title. .
"It feels great. We worked really hard, and it wasn't easy, so I'm really proud of everyone. This is a great group of girls. Some have been here before and some are new, but there is a good sense of community within this group, and it shows on the field." Alaina Granger, Auckland United FC midfielder
Images courtesy of Phototek/OFC Media
Sources: FIFA Official
