Gulf meet brings out huge talent

A TWO-DAY Moripi Toma Cup rugby league tournament held in Iokea village in Gulf province was a resounding success with an abundance of talent emerging from Iokea and the surrounding villages.
Major sponsor George Toto, who sponsored the tournament for the last three years, said last year’s tournament was the biggest with an invitation extended to neighbouring villages of Lesse, Miaru and Sepoe.
It was a tough road ahead for all participating teams but it came down to local sides Mouta and Ovora in the grand final play-off for the Cup.
Both sides exhibited hard running and put on strong effort throughout the match.
Mouka got on the board with their chances in the first half with a 14 point buffer and maintained their lead way into the second half.
Ovoras efforts in the second half failed through poor handling and lack of urgency with the ball which eventually led to their demise.
Former Port Moresby rugby league star Graham Lausi scored the final try for Mouta towards the end to win 18-0 to claim the K1,500 prize money and the Cup.
One of the contenders for the bemobile Cup spot this year, Kerema Sapea franchise team, were also given a lift with the presence of Jamuga Stone and Martin Liri.
Stone said they were on a recruitment drive for potential talents for the Sapea franchise, an initiative of Gulf Governor Havilla Kavo.
“Some of the players will be also selected to play for the Kone Tigers Rugby League club in Port Moresby,” Stone said.
Toto was pleased with the two-day tournament, especially for the youths in the villages.
He also reaffirmed his support for a similar tournament later this year.
The champions Mouta walked away with K1,500 while Ovora received K500 and the Most Improved Player Trophy.