Kossa FC remained at the top of the S-League standings after edging Honiara City 4-3 in a thrilling encounter on Saturday at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara.
The win also denied Central Coast FC the opportunity to go top, despite their 4-2 victory over Laugu United in the day’s earlier match.
Kossa didn’t take long to open the scoring, with youth international Philimon Talisia finishing off a swift counterattack.
Minutes later, the lead was doubled when Tigi Molea found the back of the net. Talisia then grabbed his second of the match before Moffat Kilifa gave Honiara City hope, heading in from a corner.
Just before halftime, Honiara City striker Junior Rocky cut the deficit to one goal, with both teams going into the break at 3-2 in Kossa’s favor.
The second half was eventful. Honiara City were awarded a penalty, but Kossa goalkeeper Ronnie Sale came up big, saving the spot-kick.
Moments later, Kossa were reduced to 10 men after substitute Winford Bekepio received a second yellow card in quick succession.
With the numerical advantage, Junior Rocky leveled the score for Honiara City midway through the second half.
But with just four minutes of added time remaining, second-half substitute Milton Taolo found himself one-on-one with the Honiara City goalkeeper and calmly slotted the ball home for the match-winner.
Speaking after the match, Kossa FC head coach Franco Ne’e praised his team’s determination to fight back despite being a man down.
“We had to dig deep for this win after going a man down in the second half, but I have players who are determined to win, who have a heart for football and the spirit to fight and it showed today,” Ne’e said.
“We came to play football. Whether we played well or not, the three points are what matter most. This was a total team effort, and that unity gave us the win.”
Looking ahead to next weekend’s match, Ne’e noted that some key players will miss the game due to suspension.
“We’ll have to dig deep again next week. With some suspensions, we’ll rely on our senior players to lead and support our younger ones,” he added.
In other Saturday results, Central Coast FC maintained second place with their 4-2 win over Laugu United, while Malaita Kingz outclassed Ghupo FC 6-0 in the day’s opening fixture.
By Timothy Inifiri Jnr
Solomon Star, Honiara
