Consistency vital to result, Rokoura says

 COACH Unaisi Rokoura will review the PNG Pepes performance from the last two games to prepare for their all-important match against Samoa today.

The Pepes notched impressive victories over neighbouring Solomon Islands 68-25 on Monday and yesterday afternoon, before brushing aside a strong Tonga side led by captain Lauelua Taulahi winning 81-27.

Against Tonga yesterday, Rokoura said she had instructed her players to utilise every turn-over and convert them into points.

“I am glad that the girls followed instructions, adopted structured play and consistency during the match which helped them post the big win over the Tongans,” she said.

The former Fiji coach said the team wanted to maintain consistency in its bid for the gold medal play-off.

“The match against Samoa was the game of our life. 

“If PNG wants to avoid playing Fiji, then the girls must lift and provide a positive result for themselves and the country,” the coach said.

After trying-out players in various positions, Rokoura said she would name a strong team to challenge Samoa today.

Captain Winnie Mavara, who sat out in the two opening matches, is likely to return to centre against Samoa. 

“She came on in the last two quarters and played well.

“She will be in the starting team today.” 

The coach was impressed with her young charges, who blended well with the experienced players against Tonga yesterday. 

Young Jephat Tulapi and Herronie Daera played well after coming on to replace Lua Rikis and Tiata Baldwin.

Tulapi had an 83 per cent success rate, converting 10 points from 12 attempts while Daera notched a four-from-four.

Tonga’s shooting pair of Taulahi Lavelua and Manumua Ioumaile were not as effective as their opposition.

Taulahi said her team played strongly but could not get over the strong PNG side. “We hope to comeback strongly with a win against Solomon Islands today,” she said.