Gaivakala get nod to attend PNG Games

REIGNING champions of the Southern region 9s rugby league tournament Gaivakala 1 will represent Central at the PNG Games in Kokopo, East New Britain next year.
Gaivakala from Aroma Coast were selected after retaining the Alphonse Moroi Cup early this month.
The selection of Gaivakala was agreed to by the Central steering committee who had decided that the winners of the tournament would represent the province at the games.
Head coach Manasseh Rapila said Gaivakala defeated Porebada Broncos 24-14 in the Cup grand final and it was only proper for them to represent the province.
Rapila said it would also give the players the  opportunity to showcase their talents at the games.
He said it was through determination, belief and the level of discipline on and off the field that helped them defend the cup.
“It was not easy because there were a lot of talented players and tough teams in the tournament this year,” Rapila said.
“It will be an eye-opener for the boys as they have yet to participate at this level of competition,” he said when referring to the PNG Games.
“But I am confident they will do well given the type of tough competition they have endured in the Southern region rugby league 9s tournament,” he said.
The squad is Phillip Venao, Wari Niuni, Gairo Varo, Ray Peter, Mega Kapi, Polona Kwapena, Colin Geno and Uai Bou, Alova Varo, Joe Geno, Ilo Avo (captain), Nelson Geno, Donald Martin, Jimmy Ravu, Veiva Ivali, Graham Ravu, Galama Mulaga, Robson Ilo, Vanua Valu.
The officials are Manasseh Rapila (head coach), Colin Geno (skills and assistant coach) and Ivan Ravu (skills coach/trainer).