KEY POINTS:
The South African connection struck again for Auckland City as they shut out a spirited Hawke's Bay United 2-0 in yesterday's opening game of the second round.
Nine minutes into the second half, after a goal-less 45-minute opening spell, Grant Young headed home for 1-0. Twenty minutes later, Keryn Jordan ensured the points would be claimed by City, who cemented their place at the top of the table.
They were the first goals of the new season for the pair, who continue to lead the way as the top goalscorers in the NZFC, which is now into its fourth season.
The visitors, like City in coming off a first-up 3-1 victory, promised plenty early at the McLeod Rd ground but their inability to turn that promise into something more productive cost them any chance.
Bay coach Jonathan Gould said his team had come north looking for something from the game but conceded they had failed to convert early half chances and had handed the initiative to the home side.
Indeed, the first goal from a Jeff Campbell corner was gift-wrapped when the Bay defence failed to attack the bouncing ball in front of goal and Young was unchallenged in getting his head to it and nodding home.
With 17 minutes remaining, the ball was played deep to Young, who turned it square for Jordan who, on the charge, volleyed home.
There were other chances - Jordan headed wide from a James Pritchett cross after earlier hitting the crossbar with a 35 metre rocket and having another attempt blocked by Bay keeper Mitch O'Brien - with most falling to the home side.
Jarrod Smith and Sam Messam formed an imposing strike-force for the visitors but were given few chances by the resolute City defence again well led by captain Ben Sigmund. Chad Coombes again impressed with his tireless work, while Ki-Hyung Lee continues to show the neat touches which earned him 47 caps for his native South Korea.
Other first round winners Team Wellington and Waikato FC have the chance to join City at the top of the table with home games this afternoon againstYoungHeart Manawatu and Waitakere United respectively. Otago host Canterbury in the South Island derby.
Auckland City 2 (Grant Young, Keryn Jordan) Hawke's Bay United 0. HT: 0-0.
