A stoppage-time penalty shattered Papua New Guinea (PNG) Hekari FC’s hopes of a first win of the season as Vanuatu United FC fought back for a 2-2 draw in one of the most dramatic matches of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Pro League so far in Port Moresby on Tuesday.

PNG Hekari came into the match under pressure, having lost all three of their previous games and following the recent resignation of head coach Marcos Gusmão.

That task became even tougher when Vanuatu United took an early lead after just 12 minutes.

Erick Joe made a strong challenge to clear a cross from the right, but the ball fell kindly to Bill Kaltack, who showed great composure to curl a fine finish into the far corner.

Vanuatu United looked in control for much of the opening spell, pressing high and keeping PNG Hekari pinned back.

Despite struggling to find rhythm, PNG Hekari were handed a lifeline midway through the first half. John Orobulu broke into the penalty area and was brought down by Vanuatu captain Michel Coulon.

The referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, and Joseph Joe calmly converted the penalty, lifting his shot into the top corner to level the score.

Both sides had chances before the break, with PNG Hekari goalkeeper Dave Tomare producing a smart save to deny Jordy Tasip and keep the scores level.

PNG Hekari completed the turnaround 12 minutes into the second half. From a well-delivered corner by Raymond Gunemba, Erick Joe rose highest and powered a header past the goalkeeper to put his side 2-1 ahead.

PNG Hekari FC and Vanuatu United FC battle for possession during a tense OFC Pro League encounter. Photo/OFC

Sensing a first win was within reach, PNG Hekari pushed forward in search of a third goal, but their finishing let them down.

At the other end, Vanuatu United threatened through Owen Smith, who came agonisingly close with a free-kick that crashed against the crossbar.

That missed chance proved costly for PNG Hekari. Deep into stoppage time, defender Lekima Gonerau was penalised for handling the ball on the goal line, giving Vanuatu United a chance to rescue a point from the penalty spot.

Tempers flared in the aftermath, with Erick Joe shown a second yellow card for his protests. Owen Smith then stepped up and kept his nerve, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it 2-2 and spark wild celebrations from the visitors.

PNG Hekari were left to settle for their first point and first goals of the season, but the late equaliser was a bitter blow after coming so close to victory.

Auckland FC prove too strong for Tahiti United

Earlier in the day, Auckland FC underlined their title credentials with a convincing 4-0 win over Tahiti United at the Santos National Football Stadium.

Despite making several changes to his starting line-up, Auckland head coach Luke Casserly saw his side take an early lead through Kian Donkers, who capitalised on a defensive mistake to score from close range.

After a more even spell, Auckland stepped up in the second half. James Bayliss doubled the lead four minutes after the restart, before Aston Burns made it 3–0 soon after.

Bailey Ferguson added a fourth just past the hour mark to put the result beyond doubt.

The win keeps Auckland FC perfect in the competition, while Tahiti United are still searching for their first victory.

Action during Auckland FC’s OFC Pro League match against Tahiti United at the Santos National Football Stadium. Photo/OFC

Round two of the Pro League continues on Wednesday as the Solomon Kings FC take on South Island Utd and Fiji's Bula FC face South Melbourne FC.

For more details on the tournament, click here.

Photo/OFC