Fullback Logona steers Hanuabada to POMRFL women’s title

By ROBINSON LEKA
A HAT-trick by Papua New Guinea sevens rugby union international Joanne Logona saw Hanuabada Hawks claim the Port Moresby Rugby Football League women’s grand final with a 14-4 win over Paga Panthers.
Logona’s prowess in attack proved too strong against a tough Paga line-up with the fullback scoring her first try seven minutes in and PNG Orchids utility Lila Malabag added the extras.
Paga’s defence led by Orchids duo of Janet Michael and Roswita Kapo saw them hold off Hawks, however, poor choices in attack set them back with Hawks leading 6-0 at halftime.
Individual brilliance from Logona with the ball saw her cross over for her second try five minutes into the second half.
Poor handling from Paga 10 minutes later saw the Hawks No.1 complete her hat-trick.
Paga slowly found their groove with Kapo and halfback Betina John steering the attack and centre Catherine Anjo crossing over for their first try two minutes from fulltime.
But it was not enough as Hawks held on for the win.
“To come back after one season away from football and win against a champion team like Paga is unbelievable,” Hawks head coach Arua Ben Moide said. “The last time we won a grand final was in 2018.
“It has been a tough journey for us because we did not participate last year due to the Coronavirus.
“Credit to all our players who worked hard in defence all season.
“Joanne has been a major part of this team. “She is amazing with the ball and I think she’s got a bright future ahead of her.”