Keleiruna claim PMSA title in extra time thriller

Keleiruna FC mounted a second-half comeback to secure the Port Moresby Soccer Association (PMSA) title after stunning the Mungkas FC with a 3-2 win in extra time on Sunday, 30 August 2026, at Sir John Guise Stadium. 

Going head-to-head as two of PMSA’s premiership heavyweights, the decider lived up to expectation, with Mungkas controlling the first half and Keleiruna swinging the momentum in the second half and forcing the contest to extra time.

Mungkas controlled the tempo of the match in the opening half, with forward Mavela Malo scoring the first goal in the 8th minute and picking up the brace in the 43rd minute, giving his side a comfortable 2-0 lead at halftime.

Keleiruna talked things over in the sheds and went firing in the second stanza, registering two goals through Kori Laha and Karo Ila and pushing the game to extra time. Man of the moment, Pala Kwara scored the match-winner in the second half of extra time. 

Coach David Taro admitted that they started flat-footed in the first half, but rebounded in the second half and stole the win from Mungkas in a highly entertaining grand final match that went down to the wire.

“We started slow in the first half and were disorganized, especially defensively, but we discussed our errors and produced a strong performance in the second half to win the game,” he said. 

“I told the boys to be patient and keep moving the ball. The more we kept the ball, the more we maintained our confidence. I’m very happy with the fighting spirit of the boys.” 

The win was a fitting send-off for coach Taro, who will leave the club on a high note, with the Keleiruna mentor expressing overwhelming joy and sadness.

“In football, when you start a family and want to leave, it’s very, very emotional. It’s a blessing for the boys and me. We’ve been working really hard for this grand final,” he said.

Keleiruna created history and made a clean sweep in the PMSA Men’s Premier Division this season, claiming the pre-season title, minor premiership, and their first premiership title, including the K12,000 prize money.  

Established in 2018, the club participated in the PMSA Premier Division as a competitive side from Keapara village in Hoods Lagoon, Rigo Coast, Central Province. 

The PMSA competition is sponsored by Vodafone PNG, with the telecommunication company coming on board this season to get the naming rights.