by Ronald Toito’ona
Solomon Islands’ former footballer and top-notch coach, Jerry Allen has returned to the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Men’s Champions League 2025, with Hekari United FC of Papua New Guinea (PNG).
His relationship with Hekari United FC runs deep.
Over the years, he has been instrumental in the club’s success, most notably during their historic 2009-10 OFC Champions League triumph.
Under his leadership, Hekari United became the first team from outside Australia and New Zealand to win the competition, earning them a place in the 2010 FIFA Club World Cup.
This victory marked a golden era for both the club and Papua New Guinea football.
Despite facing challenges in the years since, including a temporary departure from the OFC Champions League and some internal governance issues, the Malaita man’s connection with the club remained unshaken.
Now, in 2025, he is back at the helm, guiding a new generation of players with a mix of youthful energy and experience.
Arriving in Honiara today, for the 2025 OFC Men’s Champions League, Allen expressed his excitement about returning to the tournament where he had once made history.
In an exclusive interview with OFC Media, he shared his thoughts on the team’s preparations and their expectations for the tournament.
“We’ve prepared well, and we’re ready,” said Allen.
“There are no injuries, and we’re focused on our first match against Central Coast FC. Hopefully, we can give a good account of ourselves.”
Allen’s calm and measured approach to the competition is reflective of his experience. He knows that the tournament will be tough, with all teams looking to make their mark.
However, he emphasized that the key to success lies in giving their best on the field.
“We know this is the final OFC Championship. It’s going to be a challenging tournament, and all teams are going to bring their best. But you just need to give your very best,” he said.
While the tournament is expected to be fiercely competitive, Allen is confident in the capabilities of his young squad.
Many of the players have come through the Hekari Academy.
He said, one player to watch is Ati Kepo, a rising star who has already earned recognition with the PNG National Team.
“Most of the players here are young and came up from the Hekari Academy, including Ati Kepo, who plays for the PNG National Team,” Allen revealed.
“Hopefully, he can do some magic for us during the tournament.”
Having previously led Hekari United to the pinnacle of Pacific football, he knows what it takes to succeed in the OFC Champions League.