Frank hails squad

By PARKER TAMBUA
WAGHI Tumbe captain Joe Frank has credited discipline and commitment for his team’s run to the Digicel Cup grand final.
The Tumbe beat the Mendi Muruks 31-16 in the preliminary final on Sunday to book their first final appearance; the win was also the Jiwaka side’s 11th-straight victory since their 12-8 triumph over the Port Moresby Vipers in round four.
Frank, a former SP Hunter, said after the game that he was proud of his players.
“The bulk of the players in our team are new to the Digicel Cup and I’m proud of the standard and discipline they have maintained throughout the season,” Frank said.
“They have been committed and have put in a lot of hard work in training.
“Discipline on and off the field is there and I think that’s what brought us this far,” the 26-year-old said.
“Now we are off to the big stage, the grand final and we are excited.”
Frank gave credit to the senior players in the team for their leadership and guidance, especially during the finals which saw the Tumbe beat the Gurias 18-8 in week one (elimination final) before a their dramatic 20-19 win over defending champions the Hela Wigmen in week two (minor semifinal).
“The only experienced players we have are David Joseph, Saki Peter, Supa Kokote, Tiger Emere and myself,” Frank said.
“I think we have led by example and the young players have fed off that which is good.
“We have been doing that consistently throughout the season and it has paid off.
“But we still have one more big game to get the job done so we just have to maintain the way we are playing.”
Frank also acknowledged 26-year-old rookie head coach Baundo Aba and his staff for their work in preparing the side.
“Credit to our rookie coach Baundo Aba,” he said.
“Baundo is inexperienced in coaching but he and his coaching staff have done a tremendous job in keeping this team together.”