Eagles eager to secure premiership

By MELTON PAIS
AFTER missing out for 11 years, the Brown Eagles are desperate to win the title when they take on the in-form United Brothers in the Port Moresby men’s grand final on Sunday.
Eagles’ coach Julias Uvias said his team, made up mostly of youngsters, would go all out against the Brothers as they try to repeat their 2007 heroics.
Uvias said despite both clubs getting one over each other this season, his charges were expecting a much tougher contest in the decider.
“We beat the Brothers in the second round of competition,” he said.
“But they beat us also in the finals, winning by one point.
“We had a close tussle with the Brothers throughout the season, so we are aware of their strengths and weaknesses.”
He said the Brothers were a strong side made up of experienced campaigners who would come out firing.
The Eagles beat minor premiers Lamana Yokomo 4-1 last Sunday to book their grand final spot.
“It was a great feeling to beat last year’s runner-up, but we still have a big task ahead of us — the grand final,” Uvias said.
Uvias said they were brushing up on their fielding at training this week.
“The side that makes the least fielding errors and bats well will come out on top,” Uvia said.
“Eleven years is too long, so we will come out fighting.
“We won’t wait till the next time.
“This is our time.”
Uvias said he would be relying on pitcher Colish Pagal to get them on the front foot and to keep the Brothers at bay.
Uvias said he would count on Bernard and Martin Albert, Consie Lumaris and Tyron Paivu to lift in their batting and fielding.
Meanwhile, Brothers’ coach Tony Daple will be banking on his players, who have been solid all season, to get the job done against the Eagles.