Lahanis’ pride on the line

By JOHN SUPA
Bintangor Goroka Lahanis’ round one loss to Enga Mioks at home will be the catalyst when both teams clash in on Sunday at the Johnson Siki Oval in Wabag.
The reigning Digicel Cup champions have so far won five and lost three games with their bye putting them on 12 points equal with SNS Port Moresby Vipers and WGS Mt Hagen Eagles.
The Lahanis management and supporters know that apart from the loss to Mioks, their losses to the Eagles and TNA Simbu Lions at Kagamuga and Kundiawa respectively were tough away matches and this weekend will be another torrid encounter.
Despite the hunger in the Lahanis camp to avenge their home loss, they still have a daunting task and to add spice to the match they will face some their own players who departed in the pre-season.
Former Lahanis trio Kevin Inagafa, Bernard Warlock and Pasu Awani, who are coach Timothy Lepa’s mainstays pose a challenge for the Lahanis with their inside knowledge of coach Peter Danga’s style and tactics.
The Mioks on the other hand have been pulling off major coups in foreign territory, including their 32-20 drubbing of the Lions at Kundiawa last Sunday.
They recorded two consecutive wins against Gulf Isapeas and SBSL Mendi Muruks.
The Lahanis have five home games to go which should equate to 10 points and the impetus to secure a top three berth.
But first the “Tru Aves” must win the other away games, starting with Sunday’s game against the uncompromising Engans.
The Lahanis likely line up is: Adex Kudoo Wera, Spirrow Mikaive, Thompson Teteh, Cedric Singip or Lawrence Kuso Jr, Felix Tatsim, Casey Frank and Walter Hasu in the backline.
The forward pack should have metre-gainers Gonzella Urakusie and Wesley Mohokule propping with Yappa Kapu at hooker.
Co-captains and Kumuls Glen Nami and Nicko Ubile with utility Joseph Peter round off an imposing pack.
The bench should have school boys Camilus Silingiwi, Foggy Kobege, Kingsley Jaggie, Damien Bage and Janis Aitapo (one to be omitted).