Eagles raring to go in Digicel Cup after 2-year suspension

THE Mount Hagen Eagles’ inclusion in the Digicel Cup next season is welcome news to the people of Western Highlands, says board chairman Bob Pakindi.
“It’s good to be back after the two-year suspension,” Pakindi said.
The Papua New Guinea National Rugby League (PNGNRL) judiciary handed down the suspension to the Eagles in 2016 after a brawl in their semifinal against the Rabaul Gurias.
“This has given the people of Western Highlands something to think about, and we should not bring the game into disrepute again,” Pakindi said.
“This is not in the best interest of good sportsmanship, so we should change our mindsets now.”
Pakindi thanked the PNGNRL board headed by Adrian Chow and PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) chairman Sandis Tsaka for including the Eagles in the country’s semi-professional competition.
“This indicates the confidence that PNGNRL and PNGRFL has in the Hagen Eagles to re-enter the semi-professional competition with the quality of players we currently have in the Kumuls and PNG Hunters,” he said. Pakindi said Hunters’ Nixon Putt, Moses Meninga were products of the Eagles.
He said major sponsors Wamp Nga Group of Companies, Mt Hagen City Authority and Hagen MP William Duma had been faithful backers of the franchise.
Pakindi said the support had boosted their franchise’s confidence to return to the competition stronger. “They have committed a lot of resources,” he said.
“We have to be mindful of that and stop messing with people who are good to us.”
Pakindi said they were now building a new foundation, with several experienced players expected to pull on the Eagles jersey in the Digicel Cup next season.