City ready to face Galaxy

By PATRICIA KEAMO
PAPUA New Guinea’s representative, Lae City are scheduled to depart for New Zealand on Sunday ahead of next Thursday’s Oceania Football Confederation Champions League opener against Vanuatu’s Galaxy at the Ngahue Reserve in Auckland.
Head coach Bob Morris said while they had a big challenge ahead of them, the team’s preparations were on track with the squad focused on their goal of topping their pool.
“I have 23 players rostered for this tournament. We will be joined in New Zealand by a Japanese defender, Kohei Matsumoto, and Fijian-based Nigerian striker Jibola Afonja,” Morris told The National yesterday.
“My aim is to finish on top.
We have to win all three pool games to achieve that.
“But it won’t be that easy, so we need to be disciplined and stay composed on the field.
“It is my first Champions League (as a coach), but I’m not new to the international stage.
“I believe in what I do and I’m confident in my team.
“With the support and motivation of our sponsors, I believe we will be competitive in the league.”
Morris said he was looking forward to the opener.
“Galaxy have been in the league for a while,” he said.
“But I am confident that City will give them a run for their money.
“My players also have the experience at this level so I feel comfortable but not complacent.
“We have been working hard at training.” Meanwhile, when asked if the PNG Football Association had assisted the reigning National Soccer League champions for their campaign, Morris said he was not aware of any commitments despite the club representing the association and the country.
“I am not too sure whether the association will assist,” he said.
“I have no idea about that.
“Our sponsor, Lae Biscuit Company is paying for everything.”
Fixtures: Thurs, Aug 4 – Galaxy v Lae City (12pm kick-off); Sun, Aug 7 – AS Vènus v Lae City (3pm); Wed, Aug 10 – Lae City v Central Coast (12pm).