Coaches vie for title in rookie seasons

By ROBINSON LEKA
THIS weekend’s Port Moresby AFL grand final will feature coaches Danny Meli (West Eagles) and Joseph Ila (Kokofa-Cats) vying for a premiership in their rookie campaigns.
Meli, who took over from former coach John Timothy, said his side were anticipating a strong challenge from Kokofa-Cats but were confident of retaining the title.
“It’s going to be a very good game,” he said.
“Last week, we were actually barracking for a Kokofa-Cats victory (against the Dockers in the preliminary final) because their game is similar to ours.
“It’s going to be tough and fast, we’re counting on everyone to play a fair game.
“But we still have to polish up on a few things like our kicking accuracy, decisiveness and execution.”
Meanwhile, Ila said he was taking a relaxed approach ahead of Saturday’s decider.
“It’s just a normal game for us,” he said.
“We’re taking this week day by day and looking at what we want to do.
“After last weekend’s game, we’ve been having bonding sessions.”