Girls are back

 By HENRY MORABANG

COACH Rachel Wadunah has called for more technical support from PNG Football Association if women’s soccer is to remain competitive.

Wadunah, who fought back tears of joy on arrival yesterday at the Jackson International Airport, said the team (U20) needed more technical and financial support to advance its development to close the gap in standards with New Zealand.

Such support would ensure the squad trained together for longer periods and also attend regular competitions, even friendly matches against other countries.

Reflecting on the team preparation, the Madang-based coach appealed to the National Government the governing body to help women seek more support from corporate bodies to build women’s football.

The performances by the PNG U20 women in New Zealand showed the country’s potential against advanced sides such as New Zealand.

This is the first time a women’s national team has held New Zealand to a 3-0 margin.

Had captain Rumona Morris not scored an own goal, it could have been 2-0.

Wadunah said she was pleased with the results and performance.

Striker Meagan Gunemba won the Player of the Tournament Award but Wadunah praised the team for their courage at the U20 championship.

Wadunah, who coaches Tusbab Kumuls in Madang, said the side had played remarkably well considering the short preparation time.

Assistant coach Hans Gewambing called on PNGFA maintain the squad. 

“The players will have to work hard to maintain their spots while new players can be slotted in as we prepare for the next U20 match in 2016,” Gewambi said