Digicel Cup season set

Gurias, Tumbe to kick off campaign

THE Digicel Cup season kicks off tomorrow with Rabaul Gurias facing Waghi Tumbe (1pm kick-off) and Port Moresby Vipers hosting Kimbe Cutters (3.30pm) at the Oil Search National Football Stadium. In second Port Moresby double-header, on Sunday, defending premiers Hela Wigmen face Goroka Lahanis (1pm) while Gulf Isou meet Central Dabaris (3.30pm). On the same day, the Lae Rugby League Ground double-header will see Enga Mioks face Mendi Muruks (1pm) and Lae Tigers host Mt Hagen Eagles (3.30pm). For Last year’s minor premiers, the Gurias they will miss new recruit and former SP Hunters playmaker Justin Yoka as he is yet to be vaccinated. However, they will have the services of former former Hunter Silas Gahuna in the hooking role, and Mark Alunga and Paul Nelson Jr in the halves. Tumbe will be without Garry Lo who hasn’t been vaccinated. They have had a strong pre-season under new coach Baundo Aba. The Wigmen have had a poor pre-season with loses to Central Dabaris and Port Moresby Vipers in their trial matches.  The clash against the Bintangor-sponsored Lahanis will be a test for their new backline who will be missing their stars from last season. Premiership-winning five-eighth Tony Wemin said last week that he was aiming to take charge of their attack this season. Lahanis rake Charlie Buka said last month that his side had the same team spirit of 2018, the year in which they won the premiership.  Muruks captain Wesa Tenza said last month they were counting on their intensive pre-season training to stand the squad in good stead for the upcoming campaign. The will be up against the Mioks who have the services of 2014 premiership-winning coach Andiki Andrew. For the Lae Biscuit Company-sponsored Tigers, they suffered a disappointing finish last season with the grand final loss and they will be aiming for another dominant campaign under coach Stanley Tepend.