EXECUTION and poor finishing continue to be Extra Bula FC’s major setbacks despite the significant attacking promise the team has developed.
In their 1-1 draw against South Melbourne FC on Wednesday evening in the second round of the OFC Pro League in Port Moresby, poor execution prevented them from securing their second win of the competition.
The team conceded an early goal in the 13th minute, but a determined solo effort by striker Christopher Wasasala in the 41st minute earned an equaliser, rewarding the team’s resilience after falling behind.
In the second half, the team showed considerable attacking promise; however, poor finishing and failure to convert several clear one-on-one opportunities denied them victory.
In the post-match interview, head coach Stephane Auvray praised his team’s performance but emphasised that winning was not the primary objective in their debut season.
“Priority is to build a good a style of play, culture and mindset and this is really doing well,” he said.
“Yes, I really like to have more points but on the other hand our objective for the season is not really getting more points but it’s what we can deliver and so far, I’m pretty satisfied.”
The team is beginning to show signs of promise, with player rotation and bench efficiency highlighting the squad’s depth and technical prowess.
As the squad settles into the coach’s style of play and game strategy, their on-field performances have become more resilient and encouraging.
If the team can improve its execution and finishing, they have the potential to cause major upsets in their maiden season.
Meanwhile, Bula FC’s Japanese midfielder Yuta Konagaya was named Player of the Match. His work rate, endurance, and technical influence stood out, providing the team with stability and momentum to continuously challenge the South Melbourne defence.
“We struggled in the first 25 minutes but after that we showed our side’s football which I was proud off, we’re getting confident on how we ca play,” he said.
Konagaya expressed disappointment that the team could not secure the win despite playing well but remains confident that the team is on the right path to becoming a dominant force in the competition.
Bula FC will face Tahiti United at 5:30 pm this Sunday in their final match of round two of the OFC Pro League.
