7s talent on show: Joseph

THE country’s best sevens talent had a chance to show off their wares at the Kalibobo 7s in Madang and tournament director Paul Joseph, pictured, says the future is bright for rugby union moving forward.
PC Ravens, who comprise members of the Lae Harlequins club, claimed the cup with a 27-7 win over East New Britain’s Stallions in the final on Sunday.
Ravens captain Francis Luveni starred for his side with a hat-trick in the final with Robin Loma kicking three conversions.
“We had some really good action at the Kalibobo 7s over the weekend,” Joseph said.
“The quality was high with the country’s top sides involved in the tournament,” the former Pukpuks sevens star said.
“We had the Black Orchids, CRU’s Brothers, Kimbe Rebels and of course Lae Harlequins two sides boosted the standard of the tournament.” Joseph said it was encouraging to see a wide range of sevens sides at the tournament which would be the final major event for the year.
“It was great to see teams from the Highlands and the Momase region at the tournament.
“We had the Hagen Tribesmen who did well making the semifinals so we know there’s good sevens talent all over the country.”
Joseph said there would be the JC Cup in Daru in December and that would involve teams from Tabubil and Kiunga.
The win by Ravens made sponsor Avea Hiaru’s day.
Hiarua said the support towards the team was because of his love and committment for the game.
In 2016 under Hiarua’s guidance the Morobe Hammerheads won the NPC and the Jonah Lomu Cup.
“After four years trying the PC Ravens finally succeeded,” Hiarua said.
“The boys are skilled players with most coming out of the Supporters Club Rugby Union Morobe program and they’ve been together for a while which is a good thing.”