Mozzies hammer Nauru

THE Papua New Guinea Mosquitoes recorded their first win of the AFL International Cup yesterday hammering Nauru 13.6 (84) to 5.5 (35).
The Mozzies burst out of the blocks to be 39-0 up at quarter time.  In contrast to their start against Ireland last Sunday, the Mozzies had first hands on the ball at the contest and were able to find outside runners to move the ball quickly to their forwards.
Amua Pirika (4) and John Ikupu (3) were strong in front of goal kicking seven goals between them, while small forwards Brendon Beno, Tyler Gorogo, Matt Little, Ace Oea and Kelly Kaugla were busy on the ground contest.
Young debutants, ruckman Douglas Lai Jr and defender Hapeo Bobagi impressed with their attack on the ball and step up to International Cup level.
The Nauruans never gave up on the contest and were able to make PNG work for every goal.
Coach David Lake was happy with the overall performance: “We started the game with great intensity which translated to scoreboard pressure and gave us great direction.
“We still fumbled a little and will need to sort that out over the next two games. We now need to win strongly to be a chance to play in the final.
“All players in the squad have now experienced International Cup footy and hopefully that now transpires into some quality outcomes.”
The Mozzies next match is against USA tomorrow.  They will need to win, and win strongly to boost their percentage which will be crucial in deciding the final top two positions on the ladder and subsequent IC final.