Chris hails mum as his inspiration

By PATRICIA KEAMO
WHILE many players draw inspiration from national representatives and international stars, Hekari United goalkeeper Russell Chris says his former footballer mum has always been his source of motivation.
The 26-year-old is in the frame to make his international debut when the men’s national team compete in next month’s Fifa World Cup regional qualifiers in Qatar.
“When I was growing up, my mum used to play as a central defender for Markham in the then Kaiapit District Soccer Association competition,” Chris told The National.
“She travelled to a lot of places in Mamose to play soccer.
“It was through her that I developed a love for football.
“When I joined the Under-17 division, I played as a defender with Naka in the Lae Football Association (LFA) competition in 2012.
“In that year, I switched positions and started playing between the goal posts when a former Sobou goalkeeper encouraged me to pursue goalkeeping. The former Vitiaz United and Morobe United custodian completed Grade 10 at Lae’s Bugandi Secondary School and had been playing football since his LFA debut in 2012.
Born to Chris Yasaptung and Mary Andrew, Chris comes from a family of six siblings and has played for LFA clubs Naka, LBC Essom, Vitiaz and City United.
The Morobe goalkeeper made his National Soccer League (NSL) debut with Vitiaz in 2020.
“I played with Morobe United in round one last season before transferring to Hekari United for the second round,” Chris said.
“I started playing when I was 17.

“My mum has always been my role model.
“I also look up to Real Madrid and Spanish goalkeeping legend Iker Casillas as a role model.
“My aim has always been to represent my country.
“Now that I have the opportunity to do so, I will do my best to contribute to the squad.
“I’m happy to learn more from the coaches and senior players in the squad.
“As a debutant, I’d like to see the Papua New Guinea Football Association establish soccer academies for young players around the country.
“So by the time these youngsters reach the NSL, they’ll be really good footballers.”
Meanwhile, Hekari coach Erickson Komeng told this paper that Chris’ selection into the final Kapuls squad was through hard work and determination.
“Russell is a talented, humble young man,” the former representative midfielder said.
“He works hard during training.
“Russell goes into every match like it is a grand final.

“It comes back to his patience and performances, so I can’t wait to see him play in PNG colours.”
Kapuls goalkeeping coach Godfrey Baniau praised Chris, saying the Markham native always had a positive attitude.
“He is always willing to learn new skills and techniques,” the PNG legend said.
“Chris did well when he was given the opportunity to play in the Kapuls’ trial matches.

“We identify a goalkeeper’s strengths and weaknesses during matches, and work on those areas during training.
“Chris is improving with every training session.
“With the right attitude and discipline, he may become a long-term member of the national squad.”