Gulf Isou appoint former Kumuls playmaker Laka as head coach for next season

By PATRICIA KEAMO
GULF Isou have appointed former Papua New Guinea Kumul and one-time SP Hunters halfback Roger Laka as their head coach for the Digicel Cup season next year.
Club chairman Mai Ori made announcement on Saturday during Isou’s awards presentation for the 2021 season, where they finished 10th in the country’s premier 12-team rugby league competition.
He also confirmed that Isou’s naming rights sponsor, Petroleum Resources Kutubu, had increased its sponsorship for next season.
“Petroleum Resources Kutubu chairman John Kapi Natto has challenged us to look after players better to perform well and reach the finals,” Ori told The National.
“If we do that well off the field, it will translate to strong on-field performances.
“We aim to reach the top-four and even the gr and final.
“Laka is hopeful of achieving these goals, saying it is achievable with the retention of the bulk of our players.
“We’re also looking to recruit a number of high-quality players.
“By the first week of next month, our squad will kick off pre-season training.”
Meanwhile, awards were presented to Roa Maino Gairo (player of the year), Makara Hura (back), Elijah Kutz (forward) and Emmanuel Parua (rookie).
“Apart from having Petroleum Resources Kutubu as our naming rights sponsor, other backers of Isou include Prima, Kikori Oil Investment, Kutubu Security, Seeto Kui, Bige and Mayur Resources,” Ori said.
“We’ve also made changes in the coaching staff — Moore Evara and Peter Popal will be assisting Laka.
“Isou’s development team in the Southern Super League will be headed by Joshua Kouru while head trainer Andy Luke will be assisted by Otto Wrakonei as the head of strength and conditioning.”