Genesis eyeing Hekari scalp

By PATRICIA KEAMO
SOUTHERN Conference winners Genesis will be aiming to continue their momentum into the Women’s National Soccer League finals with a win over runners-up Hekari United in Port Moresby tomorrow (1pm kick-off).
With eight wins and a draw, Genesis and Hekari – who have recorded six victories and a stalemate – are confirmed for the March 13 semifinals at Lae’s Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium.
The last time Genesis and Hekari met was in round five, where both teams settled for a 1-1 draw.
Genesis will be counting on skipper Yvonne Gabong, Rayleen Bauelua, Kelestah Mwawesi and Rumona Morris to get them the win against Eric Komeng’s charges, who will be led by skipper and Golden Boot frontrunner Marie Kapiu.
Genesis assistant coach Joe Willie told The National that the team were aiming to finish the regular season undefeated in the final round at Papua New Guinea Football Stadium.
“Hekari are one of the teams who tested our capabilities and game plan,” he said.
“We’re working on our attack, defence and quick transition of possession.
“We’re hoping our positive attitude and hard work will get us the win.”
Meanwhile, Komeng said their goalkeeper Linda Bunaga — who did not play last weekend due to an injury — would return for the match.
The former PNG international said he was excited to see how his side would fare against the Percy Mataio-coached side.
“We are prepared,” Komeng said.
“If we can beat Genesis, I don’t see (Northern Conference winners) Poro as a threat to us (in the semifinals).”
Komeng’s defence will be led by the Waida sisters Shalom and Serah, Hilda John and Joanne Komi with Sonia Embahe and Wendy Paraya in the midfield.
“Kaipu, Georgina Kaikas, Bertha Yapa and Mervis Singara are my strike weapons, so I’m expecting them to lead our attack,” he said.
Fixtures: Sat, Feb 27 — Port Moresby Academy v Port Moresby City, National Capital District v Amoana, Genesis v Hekari United, Bara v Pacific Gardens, Morobe Tulip v Sepik, Markham Raings v Poro, Tusbab Laidamon v Rainy Lae.