Crusaders snatch title from Lae’s Poro

 By HENRY MORABANG

THE Northern Crusaders restored lost pride for Port Moresby by beating Poro FC of Lae 3-2 in the Ox & Palm National Women’s Soccer League final at Sir John Guise stadium in Port Moresby on Saturday.

The women’s crown had evaded Port Moresby teams for the last two seasons. 

The women’s title was previously held by Bara FC of Lae Football Association for the last two years.

Saturday’s victory was sweet for Crusaders’ Esther Kurabi, Jacqueline Chalau, Miriam Lanta and Linda Bunaga as they snatched the title away from Poro.

Kurabi sent a note to women’s selectors for any upcoming international tournaments that she is available for selection as she struck twice in the 15th and the 35th minute to lay the foundation for the Northern Crusaders’s maiden victory. 

The part East Sepik and Bougainville lass missed out on the Oceania women’s qualifier tournament last year despite very good form but she proved in the grand final that she is still the number one striker/flanker in the country.

Another Crusaders goal was scored by veteran Miriam Lanta while Egar Teddy of Poro scored a goal to drag her team into the contest 3-1 at half time.

Poro led the firing in the second half.  Led by Zeena Limbai and Megan Gunemba, the Lae women had the Crusaders scrambling to keep the ball out.

During the continuous raids the Port Moresby-based team lost Elaine Lema and Bertha Yapi to injury which allowed Zonuwg Atia to score to narrow the score 3-2.

Crusaders played safety first for the rest of the match holding on for victory.