Eagles start training

THE Mt Hagen Eagles kicked off their pre-season training this month in preparation for the upcoming Digicel Cup season.
Franchise chairman Bob Pakindi told The National yesterday that their short preparation for the 2020 season had affected their performances which saw them finish seventh in the 12-team competition.
However, he said they would look to improve in the new season.
“Other teams probably were ahead in terms of training and we were behind and it showed on the field,” Pakindi said.
“But this year, we want to change that and hopefully improve from where we finished last season.”
He said they had assembled a 60-man train-on squad who were in training.
“The players come from the leagues in Western Highlands,” he said.
“We’ve also picked some from the Coca-Cola Ipatas Cup.
“We will assess them.
“We’re looking at a final roster of about 25 to 30 players.”
Pakindi said there were a number of rookies who only made their Digicel Cup debut last year and that he was hoping for them to lift their game this year. He said the team would retain the bulk of their players from last year with a few new players.
“Unfortunately, none of our players made the Hunters squad this year,” Pakindi said.
“But a few of our players from last season were Grade 12 students.
“Those players will be studying at tertiary institutions which has created space for new players.”