Gulf side aim to finish in top-four

GULF Isou are aiming for a top-four finish in the 2021 Digicel Cup season as they prepare for their season opener against Central Dabaris at the Oil Search National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday (3:30pm kick-off). Team manager Raymond Aru told The National yesterday that with their new players gelling well with experienced hands like veteran halfback Roger Laka, the team were confident of a strong campaign. He said the side had struggled in previous seasons due to various reason, but were now focused on gaining some consistency in their performances throughout the short 2021 season. “We have named 10 club debutants for the Dabaris clash,” Aru said. “Out of the debutants, five players have joined us from other clubs.  “But the other five will make their Digicel Cup debut. “We have recruited former PNG basketball representative Obert Muri who will be playing at fullback.  “Muri replaces Bland Abavu. “We have released Abavu because he didn’t want to be vaccinated. “It’s good to have the experience of Laka who joined us from Enga Mioks. “Our captain Rieko Jimmy is a great player and leader, so they are the ones who will take charge of the squad throughout the season. “Every team sets their goals before any season. For us, we want to finish in the top-four.” Isou: Obert Muri, Junior Aukele Satifa, Mark Kumbi, Makara Hura, Gabby Taune, Jimmy Amean, Roger Laka, Emmanuel Parua, Ray Batia, Eric Batia, Elizah Kutz, Roa Maino Gairo, Rieko Jimmy; Interchange — Samson Pirika, Charles Sul, Ezikel Minig, Jonnah Bob.