Consistency lifts Kumuls

PAPUA New Guinea and Leeds Rhinos forward Wellington Albert says consistency in the Kumuls line-up has allowed the national men’s rugby league team to make significant progress in recent years.
Albert told The National that the current crop of Kumuls had always dreamt of beating heavyweights Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain and Tonga.
The Southern Highlander said stability played a big part in last year’s historic 28-10 win over Great Britain at the Oil Search National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby.
“Great Britain had only English Super League and NRL players,” said the 26-year-old, who played seven tests for PNG.
“But we beat them comfortably because we’ve been playing alongside each other for quite some time now. I believe we’ve built a combination to beat any rugby league team in the world.
“Credit to the Kumuls selectors for being consistent. The win was one of our greatest achievements.
“We’ve already defeated Great Britain but we want more.
“We want to beat Australia, New Zealand and Tonga.”
Albert said it was always an honour to wear the Kumuls jersey and play for his country.
He said playing at the NFS was always memorable.
“It’s always an unreal feeling when we put the red, black and gold jersey on and run out in front of our families, friends, tribesmen and fans .
“You can feel that pressure while you are still in the dressing room.
“I get goosebumps while watching the replays of those games.
“It’s one of the best feelings.”