Hukula: Gulf Isou aiming to improve on 2020 campaign

By PATRICIA KEAMO
COACH Nigel Hukula says his Gulf Isou are aiming to improve on a “difficult” 2020 campaign in the upcoming Digicel Cup season.
The former SP Hunters assistant coach said they were upbeat about a better campaign, given the inclusion of experienced players like Roger Laka and Bland Abavu in their 30-man squad.
“We’re fortunate to have them,” he said.
“Last year was a bit difficult with the unfamiliar circumstances caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Again, it (Covid-19) has been part of this preparation (preseason) and it’s something that we wanted to get a little bit more experience on and be competitive (in the season).
“We want to get (our performances) up early and be competitive so we got some experience that will help us get around.”
Isou have appointed former SP Hunters train-on squad member Ricko Jimmy and veteran playmaker Laka as their skipper and vice-captain respectively.
Hukula said the pair’s experience would benefit the squad.
“Jimmy has been with the franchise for a while,” he said.
“He came up through junior development rank.
“We also wanted a bit of consistency and someone who was familiar with the team culture and he was the standout candidate for us.
“Also he was fortunate to be part of the Hunters programme so having that experience, we think he’ll be able to share that (with the team) on and off the field. Our nomination for the vice-captain was Laka who Jimmy will benefit from, given the playmaker’s experience as a Digicel Cup veteran and former Hunter.
Hukula said Laka’s leadership will form a key part of their coaching which would be of great benefit to Jimmy and the squad.
Isou will open their campaign against Central Dabaris at the Oil Search National Football in Port Moresby on Sunday (3.30pm kick-off).