Hagen softball picking up momentum

 By WENDY KATUSELE

NEW Guinea Islanders have taken the lead in Mt Hagen men’s softball competition.

The side is led by young hurler and national train-on squad member Terence Tirupia and dad Sebastian at first base.

Despite being closely followed by newcomers Pirates led by pitcher Arthur Maradi Jr and catcher Chris Soten, NGI want nothing less than another premiership appearance.

Catcher Damien Junior, Ephraim Kobe, short stop David Sioni and outfielder Jason Daniel form a fearsome combination that should see them through to the grand final.

But the race for the top four placings is wide open.

Third place Red Rovers with another national train-on squad member Clifford Kouse, player coach Sammy Ezekiel, former Port Moresby players Alphonse Niggins Jr and Eddie Maips are serious premiership contenders with four points separating them from the pace setters.

They too want their fair share of the remaining competition points and are placing a lot of emphasis on winning their double header matches this weekend.

With the finals nearing and the national softball titles just around the corner players are lifting their performances  not only to help their teams secure finals spots but will the hope of impressing selectors and making the Hagen side to Kokopo in April.

Despite not nominating on time, the association is sending a mens and womens side to the championships.

It is understood the Papua New Guinea Softball Federation has given Mt Hagen until tomorrow to pay their nomination and affiliation fees.

Standings: NGI 22, Pirates 19, Red Rover 17, Drongo 17, Gazelle 16, Radaaz 11, Brown Eagles 6.