By CHARLIE DUMAVI
CHRISRELLE Wahnawe smashed a hat trick as AS Academy Feminine (ASAF) of New Caledonia outclassed Labasa FC of Fiji 4-1 to bag their second win of the OFC women’s tournament.
After beating the home side Hekari United 2-1 in their tournament opener last Thursday, ASAF built their confident to race for the top spot.
With the two wins, ASFC is comfortably on top the table with two more games on hand to play.
It was unfortunate for Koloale FC carrying on their injuries from their domestic competition into the tournament that is really affecting the Arthur Simmons side.
The high Spirited ASAF were hungry for more goals as their thundering strikers; Alice Wenessia, Jennifer Neporo and the wingers Hnaune Ronaldine and Drenga Leme attempting for goal every time they get an opportunity.
ASAF coach Coralie Bretegnier could not be more proud but said they are focused for the next game.
“We are very happy to be part of this tournament. It is not done yet. We are going to keep it as it (game) comes and we are going to keep it to the end,” Bretegnier said.
ASAF coach also said they are here to make a statement because football level in their local competitions is not as competitive as the regional tournament is and therefore, “It is always been ASAF mentality” to win.
Labasa attempted to find the net with several attempts but they could not with the defense led by ASAF captain Adsy Matao who did extremely well firing instructions upfront every time her team members need it.
Labasa was fortunate to strike home their only goal for the match in the 75th minutes through Unaisi Tuberi that saw ASAF responded with a stepped up defense that kept Labasa out of the danger zone for the rest of the match.
ASAF sealed of the match with a goal from Wahnawe in the 65th minute to shut off the Labasa FC players who were already suffering from minor injuries.
Labase will play Hekari United in their last match of the tournament on Saturday at 5pm.