Kapinias, Puara focus on Gurias

By MICHAEL PHILIP
FORWARD Epel Kapinias and veteran SP Hunters rake Wartovo Puara Jr say they are determined to help Rabaul Gurias go deeper into the finals in the upcoming Digicel Cup season.
The pair are into their second week of pre-season training with the Agmark-sponsored side with high expectations from the Gurias coaching staff to lead by example.
Kapinias was released early last month from pre-season training after he failed to meet the standards of the South Pacific Brewery-backed Hunters.
He told The National earlier this week that he was excited to return to the Kokopo-based Gurias.
“My issue with the Hunters is gone,” Kapinias said.
“I am now committed to pre-season training and seeing how we go in the new Digicel Cup season.
“We’ve got good number of youngster for the pre-season.
“We will work with them all pre-season to share ideas, skills and knowledge.”
Puara, who was granted extended leave by the Hunters due to family commitments, is also part of the Gurias’ 42-man train-on squad.
“It’s always an honour for me to represent my provincial team,” the hooker said.
“With a good number of youngsters here, I am excited to train alongside them to establish combinations.
“I look forward to working with every players and coaching staff member.
“Hopefully, we can complete the pre-season on a high note.”
Coach Francis Ray’s Gurias last won the inter-city title in 2015 at Sir John Guise Stadium where they beat Simbu Lions 26-18 in the grand final.
Meanwhile, also confirmed for Gurias pre-season training is former Hunter Garry Lo.
Lo started his Digicel Cup career with Mt Hagen Eagles in 2012 before the Papua New Guinea international moved to Port Moresby Vipers with whom he won the premiership in 2013.
“I’m taking it one day at a time during the pre-season,” the winger said.
“I am struggling a bit, but I’m confident of making the final squad.”
The Western Highlands native said he would be ready for the season opener.
“I will be ready for the opener.”