Ellison joins Lae Tigers

By MICHAEL PHILIP
FORMER Rabaul Gurias winger Roy Ellison says he is enjoying pre-season training with reigning champions Lae Tigers in preparation for the coming Digicel Cup season.
The former SP Hunters winger linked up with the Oscar Tonga-coached Tigers three weeks ago after being overlooked by the Gurias for pre-season training.
Ellison told The National that his departure from the Agmark-sponsored side would serve as motivation for the new season in the country’s premier rugby league competition.
“I accept the decision, everyone makes mistakes,” he said.
“But to join the Tigers is an opportunity for me to prove my worth and earn a spot in a great side.”
The winger said injuries had been a major setback for him, but he was hopeful that this year would be a better campaign in the county’s premier league.
Ellison said he would not have left for the Lae Biscuit Company-sponsored Tigers had he been named in Gurias coach Francis Ray’s train-on squad.
“I declared my availability because my name was not on the (Gurias) list,” he said.
“I’m thrilled that the Tigers have recruited me for the upcoming season.
“To join the Tigers is an honour.
“I am looking forward to giving my best and hopefully my contribution can help the team retain the title.”
Ellison joined the Gurias after the cancellation of the 2020 Hostplus Cup season due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
However, he did not play many games that year due to the depth in the Gurias’ backline.
Similarly, Ellison played only seven games last season.
The speedster is a product of Mendi Muruks where he played in 2018 before joining the South Pacific Brewery-sponsored Hunters in 2019.