Balimo make 9s playoffs

By BENJAMIN KOITAKA
THE Balimo Swamp Dwellers are the only team outside the NCD/Central area at the MRDC Port Moresby 9s but have done well to make the quarterfinals.
The invitational team entered the 2019 pre-season tournament after a five-year absence and have proven that talent from Western province can match with the best of the capital city and Central at the National Football Stadium.
The Dwellers played three games in Pool C for a win, lose and draw but that was enough to get them into the playoffs where they take on the Hohola Flies (2).
The Dwellers lost 18-8 to a Tarangau (2) boosted by Digicel Cup winger Jojo Forova in their third game but beat Kone Storm (1) and drew with Brothers in their pool fixtures.
Dwellers coach Bali Sibiya said he was happy that they had made the quarterfinals and they were looking forward to taking on the Flies and regardless of the outcome he knew the Balimo had gained a lot from their involvement in the tournament.
Balimo hooker David Kuluka and halfback Jason Waeke will looked to unleash game-breaker George Waena.
Captain Beggy Kiyapa is the other man to watch with his speed and ability to break tackles.
Sibiya said forwards Pauly Agisa and prop Kona Mulake had impressed matching it with their more experienced rivals and he expected the pair to lay the foundation against the Flies.
Wing Kenny Fonn and centre Noel Kaeta have developed a dangerous combination they will look to attack the Flies from anywhere.