Morata ‘state of origin’ clash kicks off

MORATA suburb in Port Moresby will once again battle it out among themselves when the annual ‘state of origin’ clash starts on Sunday at the Kone Tigers Oval in Waigani.
The annual event is made up of players residing in Morata 1 and Morata 2 who form two teams, Maroons and Blues, respectively.
The current champions Morata 2 Blues are looking forward to win a back-to-back title after announcing their 20-man team this week.
However, the Maroons, who let the shield slip through their hands, are determined to take it back to Morata 1.
The onus will be on their coach Fraka Kairi.
Blues coach Yanga Harupa named current emerging PNG Kumul Noel Joel to captain the side at five-eighth while rising star Ron Wek will partner him at half back.
Harupa said he was confident the players would put on a good show.
But he is aware that the Maroons will be more keen after losing the title last year.
“We are working hard to ensure the shield remains at Morata 2,” Harupa said.
The full squad is Nelson Taita, Patrus Pawa, Matna Loti, Jeremy Yakipu, Gilbert Alex, Joel, Wek, Mek Peter, Kailo Robert, Pelle Dus, Philemon Nepol, Kuri Steven, Ewa Tulia, Philip Muno, Brandy Peter, Mauwe Mogia, Allan Alex, Paul John, Hobert Meffy and Soma Tai.
The team coach is Harupa, the trainer is Tony Johns and the team manager is Jim Buri.
The Maroons side is Charlie Simon, Temai John, Anderson Karape, Mike Belo, Kapi James, Aupe Michael, Tass Delta, John Jerry, Steven Joel, Maiker Fuse, Francis Ronson, Solo John, Junior Manda, Kaspa Michael, Big Joe, Innu Warriors, Stanley Parkop and James Mondo.
The coach is Kairi. The side is yet to name a trainer and manager.