Isapeas selector says team changed without his consent

GULF Isapeas chief selector Jacob Ivaroa this week expressed disbelief at the team’s record-breaking 4-86 loss to the Rabaul Gurias in Week 15 of the Digicel rugby league Cup in Kokopo on Sunday.
Ivaroa was furious because he was not consulted on a team ‘overhaul’ before they left for Kokopo, and then finding out about the loss from the media and from the players.
Work with the elections had taken him back to the province and he had been in contact with team management by phone over the past three weeks.
“Governor (Haivilla Kavo), who is patron of the team, was really upset after he found out and summoned me to explain,” he said.
“I did not have any answers. Even worse, I did not know some of the players on the team and who selected them,” a frustrated Ivaroa said.
“When I select a team, I back and support it. This is a direct insult to my role as chief selector of the Isapeas.
“Whoever selected this team needs to explain to the people of Gulf why the team lost the way we did.
This is an embarrassment. This is just too much.”
The team was back on the paddock yesterday afternoon for a physical session. Though those who did not make the team to Kokopo tried to reignite energy, it was clear that the loss had taken its toll on the players.
Coach Chris Enara was at training but was not inclined to comment.
Ivaroa said he understood from reports that discipline had dropped and he was intent on making some decisions leading into the home match against the second placed Enga Mioks on Sunday.