Central side launch bid to join NSL competition

PAPUA New Guinea Football Association president John Kapi Natto attended the launching of a National Soccer League (NSL) franchise bid during its fundraising dinner in Port Moresby on Friday.
Central United FC — run by franchise co-owners Morea Vavine and Kamo Kini — are looking to enter the race alongside Hekari United FC, Port Moresby Soccer Association and other teams in the Southern conference of the new NSL season, which starts on Jan 19.
“It’s not that easy to assemble rural-based teams and get them up to another notch like the NSL,” Kini said in statement.
“But one thing for sure is that those of us behind this move are determined and inspired by Central’s long absence from the national soccer scene.
“Hence, this is to set a pathway for the rest of Central, especially for the youngsters to make it to the top.
“Central saw some star players who had previously donned the national colours and made a name for themselves, which we can all be very proud of their achievements.
“(Players in) the likes of Tubusereia’s Manis Lamond, Kamali’s Maino Kwalimu, Koupa’s Kema Jack and Leslie Kalai, Papaka duo David Aua and Gure Gabina, Kalo’s Kolu Kepo and Patrick Aisa — who I understand originates from Kairuku.”
Koupa Soccer Association president Vavine said the franchise would recruit top players from within the province to be a force in NSL.
Vavine appealed to other associations to work with him and Kini to promote the game in Central.
“This team is the flagship of the people of Central and we expect everyone to join and support us in this new and exciting venture,” Vavine said.
Central United FC received pledges of up to K30,000 from individuals, companies and the Central administration.
Deputy provincial administrator Edward Kila and Hekari FC general manager Vonnie Natto were among the guests in attendance.