Soccer: Auckland on track in Oceania

Defender James Pritchett made his 48th OFC Champions League appearance in a 3-0 win over Dragon. Photo / Greg Bowker

Auckland City are on course for the semifinals of the OFC Champions League after a convincing 3-0 defeat of AS Dragon in Fiji yesterday.

Korean midfielder Daewook Kim set the ASB Premiership champions on the road to victory with a 13th minute close range header, before second half goals from Emiliano Tade and Joao Moreira sealed the win.

Defender James Pritchett, making his 48th Champions League appearance, said team work was the key element of another strong performance which left Auckland in a good position to reach the next round.

"Personal records are one thing but to come out here today and get two wins is very pleasing,'' he said. "It was a strong team effort. We've scored six goals and conceded none and have six points, so if it comes down to a second qualifying spot we're well-placed.'

The conditions were oppressive but Pritchett downplayed that aspect, citing his extensive experience in the Oceania environment.

"It was 31 degrees and about 60 per cent humidity but I've played in the Pacific for a long time now and your body gets used to it.''

For the second time in two matches, Auckland's opponents finished the match short-handed, with Henri Caroine sent off after picking up a second yellow card. While today's match feisty was at times, Pritchett said today's was better controlled.

"I think the referee did OK today, there were a couple of times players jumped in, but you have to just get on with it,'' he said.

Auckland's next match is with Amicale FC on Monday in a game that could shape up as a virtual quarter-final. Auckland sit atop group B with maximum points while Amicale sit one spot below but holding a game in hand with Nadi.