Koupa looking to stamp their mark

By HENRY MORABANG
KOUPA will be out to stake their claim as one of the favourites to win the Southern region leg of the Besta FA Cup which starts today at the PNGIPA Sports Oval at Waigaini.
The Central team will be led by striker Kema Jack, who is recovering from the hectic O-League and the National Soccer League seasons, is part of the side after competing in the village competition.
The side is made of players from Hula in Central.
Hosts NCD Public Servants Soccer Association will be the other strong contender for the title while Hekari from Kutubu, Southern Highlands, will be going in as underdogs in the two-day tournament.
However, Hekari should ring some surprises for the hosts NCDPSSA and Koupa.
NCDPSSA president Simon Koima said only three associations in Southern region met the affiliation requirements set by the PNG Football Association to compete.
With majority of the players moving between the two associations in Port Moresby – the NCD Public Servants and the Port Moresby soccer associations – they are expected to catch the limelight should there be any scouts around to lure them to sign up for the 2011-12 National Soccer League season.   
Local organising committee chairman Vonnie Kapi Natto said teams were looking forward to the tournament.
In the opening match at 10am today, NCDPSSA will face Hekari and at 12.15pm, Hekari meet Koupa.
The team that wins two matches will automatically qualify for the grand final tomorrow.
NCDPSSA will also be fielding two teams to add some flair to the tournament to challenge sides from the Port Moresby Suburban Sports and 9-Mile competitions.
The suburban sports squads: David Hauka, Casey Sadi, Garo Kila, Victor Kera, Lewis Inos, Jah Peter, Ivan Gesoi, Junior Garando, Walter Tanduai and Semsy Joe.
The reserves: Augustine, Muksy Toua, Narobe Paul, Feddie Adolf, Jonah Koivi and Koisan Siga.
The women’s squad: Stephanie Alu, Annah John, Anna Duin, Helen Peter, Michaelin Aisi, Serah Abagawa, Nadiya Brian, Molly Tofota, Keren Ronnie, Anne Hale, Wilma Chris while the reserves are Taniya Dailey, Kigare Bobby, Norah Vinafa, Mariah Buri, Tracey and Saina Mull.
POMSUSA president Billy Aki thanked the PNGFA and NCDPSSA for inviting the sides to showcase their talents at the tournament.
The champions from other regions are Mt Hagen (men), Wabag (women) for Highlands, LFA (men) and (women) for Momase, Bougainville (men) and Kimbe (women) for the New Guinea Islands.