City backs experience

The National Sports

By PATRICIA KEAMO
LAE City say they are counting on their experienced players to beat Hekari United in next Saturday’s national playoff for Papua New Guinea’s representative in the Oceania Football Confederation Champions League.
Coach Bob Morris said his Lae Biscuit Company-sponsored side had played lead-up matches against an Under-23 Lae Football Association select side.
“We are prepared for them,” he told The National yesterday.
“This is an important game, so we will throw everything at them.
“We need to work hard and not take the game lightly. We need to be disciplined.
“There is no room for complacency.”
Morris said he had been testing the combinations of his new recruits with the rest of the squad.
City’s new signings include Pala Paul (Gulf Komara), Mathew David and Bruce Tiampo (both from Port Moresby Strikers).
“They are combining well with forwards Jonathan Allen, Stahl Gubag, and Obert Bika,” Morris said.
“Our midfield will be overseen by skipper Emmanuel Simon, Jacob Sabua and Eluide Fugre.
“Our defence remains solid with brothers Alwin and Felix Komolonga, Philip Steven, Thomas Yagum, and Joshua Talau.
“We respect Hekari.
“They have some of the best and most experienced players in the country.”
Meanwhile, Hekari United will be missing the services veterans Michael Foster, Koriak Upaiga and former captain David Muta, who are now pursuing life after football.
Team manager Vonnie Kapi Natto told this paper that she was confident in her development squad which was being mentored by former midfielder Muta.
“It’s up to the youngsters now,” she said. “I’m thankful that David is guiding our men’s team alongside Wira Wama while Erickson Komeng (head coach) is focused on the women’s team (for Saturday’s Women’s National Soccer League grand final).
“City have experienced players from the goalkeeper to the frontline.
“For us, I am not taking a risk as I believe in my development team.
“We want them to lead.
“If we don’t make it (to the Champions League) this year, we will be ready in 2023.
“But I have faith in my youngsters.
“They just need to work hard and believe in themselves.”