Hut set alight during match

Goroka in doubt as Digicel Cup host after NSI property goes up in flames

A HUT at Goroka’s National Sports Institute (NSI) was allegedly set alight by disgruntled spectators during the Digicel Cup round-eight fixture between hosts Lahanis and the Lae Tigers yesterday.
An NSI official expressed disappointment over the incident, adding that the management would “think twice” about hosting another Digicel Cup match this season.
NSI Covid-19 protocol surveillance supervisor Bob Bomai said they only allowed 500 spectators through the gates as per the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) measures.
“We picked up three persons with a simple cough but no fever,” he said.
“We advised them to wear masks throughout the game and report to the hospital for testing after the game.”
Many spectators were denied entry with police monitoring the entrance. Attempts to get a comment from PNGNRLC manager Stanley Hondina were unsuccessful while chairman Adrian Chow said he was not in a position to make a statement as he had “not been fully briefed” about the incident.
Meanwhile, ladder leaders Tigers continued their perfect start to the season with a 40-12 win over the Lahanis.
The Lahanis fought back with tries to Absolom Lingas, Sefa Dait and Tassy Kawagle but were unable to contain the visitors who took a 20-0 lead at halftime, thanks to tries by Jokedi Bire, Roderick Tai, Junior Rop and Edwin Ipape.
Tigers forward Tiger Emere scored two quick tries 10 minutes into the second half. Winger Joshua Lau and Tai crossed over for a 40-0 lead before the Lahanis hit back with three tries to finish the round in ninth spot in the 12-team competition.