Eagles, Koboni face off

THE old rivalry between West and Koboni resumes at the Colts Oval tomorrow to decide the premiers of the Port Moresby Esiloan AFL Premiership.
The Eagles last appeared in the grand final in 2007 when they beat the Dockers.
Since its inception in 1976, West have entered the grand final 14 times, winning eight and losing six.
Koboni hold the record of 18 premierships.
The years in which West won the title were in 1979, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1995, 1996, 1999 and 2007.
The most significant of all grand finals was in 1999 when they drew with Koboni to be declared joint premiers.
The club, mostly made up of West New Britons, were absent from the competition in 2009, citing management issues.
“Of course we had management issues but that is something of the past,” Eagles official Joseph Logha said.
“We have come together once again to create a new beginning for our children to enjoy life through AFL and give them hope for the future.”
The Eagles were revived in 2015 and they ended the season with the wooden spoon.
Since then, they have gone from strength to strength to make the finals in 2017, minor premiers in 2018 and grand final this year.
The team have had a successful year going through to the grand final undefeated.
The Bismark Maritime Limited-backed Eagles start as favourites to wrestle the title from Koboni.
The Concept-backed Koboni are the defending champions and like last year, they have done the hard yards to make the grand final after a dismal start to the season.
They are making their 27th grand-final appearance.
They are aiming for their 19th grand-final victory and much of their hopes will hinge on how well their centerline will contain the Eagles’ combination of Greg Ekari, Kila Rawali, Clyde Pulah, Camillo Ekari, Reagan Naipao and John James Lavai.
Koboni’s Hapeo Bobogi, Brendan Beno, Alphonse Jambarufo, Hacksy Ehava and Lailai will need to step up in the midfield to contain on Rawali and company.
The Eagles also have the best forward line-up of captain Jeffery Namete, Dunstall Kase, Mackenzie Kaman, Damien Kani, Danny Kaile and Damien Kani to keep the scores rolling.
At the other end of the field, fullback Alosi Mondo should combine well with Raymond Asaio and Lynden Mondon to keep out Koboni stars Amua Pirika, Douglas Lai Jr, Moku Manu and Herald Kali.
Much of Koboni’s defensive play will rest on fullback Michael Maka, Chrijen Amona, Virgil Evere and Ryan Kororo.
Meanwhile, in the reserve-grade grand final minor premiers Sun City Cats will be out to avenge their major semifinal loss to the Gordon Kokofas as they look to wrap up the title.