SOLOMON Islands international exports Micah Lea’alafa and Benjamin Totori have scored a goal each, in the opening games of their clubs, at the Trusts Arena, Auckland, Sunday.
Auckland City FC began their OFC Champions League title defence in ominous form with a 7-0 thumping of AS Venus on Sunday at Trusts Arena while Fiji’s Lautoka FC joined them as match day one winners with a 3-1 victory over Papua New Guinea’s Madang FC.
The title holder was in dominant form from start to finish controlling the possession in typical fashion and starving the Tahitian representatives any sort of foothold in the match.
Micah Lea’alafa joins Reid Drake, Callum McCowatt and debutant Dalton Wilkins, plus a hat trick from Emiliano Tade to register the first three points for the hosts.
Young Lea’alafa also assisted in Reid Drake’s third for Auckland, from a cheeky back-heel drive.
Totori scored the opening goal for his Fiji Club, Lautoka FC in the 21st minute. This has extended his tally as the competition’s all-time top scorer with his 23rd goal.
Talismanic Totori turned provider in the 32nd minute with fellow import Cory Chettleburgh doubling Lautoka’s advantage.
Vanuatu’s Brian Kaltack added the third for Lautoka FC to make it 3-1, for their first three points.
Meanwhile, Day 2 for Group D returns this Tuesday, while match Day 2 for Group C is set for Wednesday.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
