Halfback grateful for award, praises rising talent

PAPUA New Guinea halfback Watson Boas has been named as the Digicel Cup player of the year after guiding the Rabaul Gurias to the minor premiership.
The former SP Hunter told The National after he received the award on Thursday that the season did not end the way he wanted for his team and said he was grateful for winning the award.
“It is unfortunate that we did not make it to the grand final but to win this award is just great,” Boas said of the Gurias, whose title hopes were dashed in the preliminary final by eventual champions Hela Wigmen.
“I am satisfied with my performance this year despite the team falling short.
“This award is dedicated to our fans and the people of East New Britain.”
Boas said there was a handful of young talents who were on show this season and that it was a good sign for PNG rugby league.
“I must say there is slight change in the competition compared with how it used to be when I first played six years ago,” he said.
“From my experience this season, I’ve played against some of the young playmakers coming through and that’s wonderful.
“Particularly the Highlands teams, there are some good young halves who can really play and that’s what we want.
“Our competition must continue to develop stars for the future.”
Meanwhile, the 25-year-old said he would be heading back to England early next year to complete his contract with third-tier club Doncaster.