Kerowa, Togap out for Gurias

By ABIGAIL APINA
AGMARK Guria are confident heading into their round five match against SBSL Mendi Muruks this Sunday in Kokopo despite missing two key forwards.
Coach Michael Marum revealed yesterday that Pidi Togap and captain Kot Kerowa would not play against Mendi because they had not recovered from  injuries sustained in the match against Mt Hagen Eagles  last round.
Both players will play lesser roles on Sunday but it is hoped their presence will motivate the team.
Marum said the last four games had shown up flaws in Gurias’ defence, particularly when containing opposition forwards.
He put it down to his side’s lack of size to effectively shore up the middle third of the field.
Marum said that they had missed far too many tackles in their match against the Eagles adding that the team put emphasis on that area especially to counter Muruks mobile pack.
He said Muruks had a strong team this season because of their  mix of experience and youth.
The Muruks pack is expected to lead the raid at Kalabond oval with captain Joseph Omae, Charlie Wabo, Wer Mark, Malachi Owen and Jackson Undi players to watch.
Marum said Gurias would need to pick up the slack with prop Kerowa and lock Togap missing from the line up.
He said their absence would not change their approach and the game plan would be remain meaning other players would need to step up.
Gurias forwards Orbert Hondole, Sam Ponda and Sakias Kabange  are expected to lift the Gurias forward pack.