Gabagaba to host Super 9s, Chiefs trial

 THE Gabagaba Rugby League Super Nines tournament, from March 2-4, has attracted 24 teams from Central and National Capital District at Gabagaba village outside Port Moresby.

Tournament director and initiator Bagelo Solien told The National yesterday that in partnership with Central Chiefs chairman Jack Kedea the event would be used in part as a trial for players top make up the franchise’s 25-man squad for the 2016 DIgicel Cup.

He said the tournament side would be picked to play a Chiefs XIII on March 12 in Port Moresby.

Solien said attractive cash prizes and as well as trophies would be on offer at the Super Nines.

He did not reveal the tournament’s major sponsor, who wished to remain annonymous at this stage, but said other backers included Gamoga Lawyers and Kedea. 

The organiser appealed to local MPs, Central Governor Kila Haoda, Rigo MP Ano Pala and Kairuku-Hiri MP Peter Isoaimo to support the tournament and the Chiefs. 

Solien said 18 teams had paid the affiliation fee of K850 but six spots were still open and he encouraged interested teams to register quickly if they wanted one of the six spots.

“We are not accepting payments in installments because from past experience some teams don’t complete paying their fee but play in the tournament which is not fair to us,” Solien said.

Bagelo said that the event’s committee is meeting all costs (accomodation/meals) for two-day tournament. 

Experienced nines campaigners in Rovanama, SSG Roosters and Gavuone have registered for the tournament.

Teams: Rovanama, SSG Roosters, Port Moresby South Dragons, Lealea, Roku, Porebada, Gavuone, Balewaia Cranes.