Digicel Cup players seen as role models

PORT Moresby Vipers team manager Steven Johns says semi-professional players are rugby-league ambassadors and has warned that the Digicel Cup franchise does not tolerate ill-discipline.
Johns’ comments came after the Port Moresby Rugby Football League (POMRFL) judiciary found that Lae Tigers’ Digicel Cup premiership-winning skipper John Andy had assaulted “a minor” while he “was seen drunk” during the preliminary finals on Saturday.
The judiciary referred Hohola Flies supporter and former player Andy to the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League, PNGNRL Competition and Tigers management for possible disciplinary action.
POMRFL also handed Royals players Mangi Ango (assault) and Supa George (wilful damage) 15-year bans for their conduct after the Flies match.
Johns said he saw the incidents unfold at the National Football Stadium.
“It is unfortunate that players lose their temper and later regret what they have done,” he said, adding that George was no longer with the Vipers.
“We do not entertain ill-discipline at the club. We are always talking to our players about their roles, and being responsible on and off the field.”
Meanwhile, Johns is taking it upon himself to provide incentives in the women’s competition.
Former Vipers forward Johns said he owed it to POMRFL for shaping him into a Digicel Cup player.
“That is why I’m providing incentives for the player of the match, and best back and forward from my own pocket,” he said.
“I want to help develop and promote the women’s competition with whatever little resources I have.”