Gabutu triumphs

GABUTU men’s and women’s teams were crowned the champions of the Eastern Papua Cup (EPC) after winning their respective grand finals over the weekend.
Reigning champions Gabutu in the men’s division defeated Mixmates to win the ECP Cup.
In the 3rd place playoff Giovaka outclassed Ebony Woods 4-3.
Pilasi defeated Fernoro 2-0 to win the Ilaitia Memorial Cup while in the women’s grand final Gabutu defeated North Coast 2-0.
Meanwhile the EPC junior competition for the under 10s and 14s also held its inaugural grand finals.
Coordinator Kingsley Ruguna said this was the first of its kind to engage school children in the EPC.
“We started late actually two weeks behind the senior competition which is about four weeks and the junior competition was for about four weeks,” Ruguna said.
“The EPC’s Bede Tomikita was happy with the junior competition and verbally gave his approval.
“So I’m calling on parents and clubs to come together so we can form a foundation committee,” Ruguna said.
Results from the junior grand finals, in the U10s Nim beat Lubaigu 1-0 and in the U14s LSC defeated Kula Aviators 3-2 in a penalty shootout after the scores were locked at 0-0 in extra time.
“Only eight clubs participated in the junior competition which was disappointing after I called for clubs to put in their teams,” he said.
The junior clubs were  Nim, Lubagu, Louisade Soccer Club (LSC), Kula Aviators, Kilia, Jokers from Goodenough, Mixmates and Solo.