Hekari name new signings

HEKARI United hopes to go one better in this year’s O-League soccer challenge after finishing fourth last year in their debut.
Team manageress Vonnie Kapi-Natto said of this year’s O-League season after she announced her six signings to boost the team’s campaign later this year – starting on Oct 17.
After learning from last year’s experience, the club wants to erase bitter memories and go one step to improve this year. 
She said the clubs has re-signed three big names from last year Joachim Waroi, Benjamin Mela (Solomon Islands) and Taumaci Manuca (Fiji).
All their big signings are in the country while two more players – one Solomon Island and a Fijian will complete the major acquisitions for the club.
However, Hekari United have lost Abraham Iniga, Jack Pekau and Fred Hale to Marist FC, who also qualify for the O-League this season.
“We bought Manuca from BA after watching him during the O-League competition last season and we’re pleased he has accepted the offer to help Hekari and PNG achieve their dream to play in the FIFA World Club championships,” she said.
Mrs Kapi-Natto said the club has retained all their PNG players except for flanker Fabian Bagi.
The club also picked up two new players from Kimbe in Desmond Waluka and Bernard Karang.
Waluka is a current member of PNG Mosquitoes team.
Mrs Kapi-Natto said the clubs retained the services of incumbent Jerry Allan as coach for the upcoming O-League and the 2009-10 NSL seasons. Also a Solomon Islander, Allan has been doing a great job in both the NSL and O-League the last three seasons.
Hekari will play its first O-League match against Vanuatu champion, Tafea on Oct 17 and then will host Tafea in November and Solomon Islands champion, Marist FC in Port Moresby.