After a goalless first half, Marist FC scored two late second-half goals to take the game 2–0 despite a gritty performance from Ngaruawahia United.

At the end of the match Ngaruawahia United President Maxine Williams presented Marist FC coach Patrick Miniti with a hamper of football gear to take back to the Melanesian country.

Solomon Islands U-20 later drew 1–1 with New Zealand U-20 at Trusts Stadium in the OFC U-20 Men's Championship won by the host nation.

Star performers for Ngaruawahia included debutant and former Solomon Islands international midfielder David Firisua and young South African-born attacker Lance Louvie.

Ngaruawahia United has played international fixtures previously including a 2–1 win over Tonga back in the 1990s at Centennial Park.