Hockey brings home bronze from championships

 PAPUA New Guinea’s men’s hockey team to the Oceania Pacific Cup Hockey Championships put on its best performance to win the bronze medal despite losing the play-off on Friday.

PNG was awarded the bronze as the competition’s standings were awarded as per countries taking part.

The men’s team played Australia Country, losing 6-1, while the women’s team lost to host, Fiji 8-0.

Team manager Kaluwin Potuan was satisfied with his team’s performance against Australia Country in the clash for the bronze. 

“We’ve improved a lot against Australia Country,” Potuan, whose team restricted the Aussies to only two first half goals, said.

Australia’s goals in the first half were scored by Matthew Huf (3rd), and Jacob Andaloro (28th).

Their second half goals were scored by Aaron O’Beirne (43), Will Jackson (61), Huf (64) and Nathan Mitchell (69).

PNG’s lone goal was scored by Michael Pomat in the 57th minute. 

In the gold medal play-off, New Zealand beat Fiji 5-3 in a pulsating final.

Top goal-scorer in the OPC final New Zealand President’s XI Mitchell Cronin said his team had to dig deep to edge a fighting Fijian team 5-3.

Cronin, who scored three of the Kiwis goals said Fiji really played well under the scorching sunshine.

The Fijian hospitality took its toll on the visiting PNG women as they faced each other in the bronze play-off.

PNG women’s coach Manoi Pokiap said: “I guess today we were a bit too relaxed.

“Fiji played a good game.

“The final score does not reflect our effort and performance throughout the tournament, but I just want to thank the women for their effort throughout the tournament.

“I’m actually really proud of the women.” Part of the team is expected to arrive today from New Zealand.

Fijian coach Alison Southey was happy with her team’s performance.

“I’m just happy that they played and left everything on the field.”

In the women’s gold medal match, Australia Country defeated New Zealand President’s Xl 3-2.