Kiunga Storm awarded win

THE Southern Club Championship clash between Kiunga and Tabubil was awarded to the Storm after the premiers refused to take the field in the second half, says an official.
Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League competition manager Toksy Nema said Tabubil Brothers had breached competition rules and therefore, the match was awarded to Kiunga Storm who were leading 22-0 at halftime.
Nema said the Storm had three players — Ray Sparks, Benson Barobok and Muba Gemari — from another club which was allowable.
He said players Jessy Joshua and Lister Emmanuel secured mid-season transfers and “there was no point in protesting against them”.
The Storm now advance to round two of the eliminations with the draws yet to be confirmed by confederation director Gwaibo Mairi.
Nema said teams were allowed a Digicel Cup, SP Hunters or PNG Kumuls player.
“This is the rule that we have to follow. We warn teams to follow the rules to avoid complaints by opposing sides,” he said.
Meanwhile, confederation administrator Indy Verena has been advised by Mairi to re-adjust the draws for the second round of eliminations.
Kerema Rugby League’s Young Tigers, Port Moresby Rugby Football League’s Brothers and UPNG Rugby Football league’s HRM Warriors are through to the second round.