Lahanis staying focused

Coach aiming to continue Digicel Cup momentum

GOROKA Lahanis coach Michael Moses says he is taking no notice of “external noise” as the side look to build on their first win of the Digicel Cup season.
It took the 2018 premiers five attempts to bag their first win – a 34-32 victory over the Dabaris in Lae on Sunday – but the former Lahanis back believes they do not have to wait that long for their second.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion so I don’t really pay attention to that (external noise),” Moses said.
“We just have to concentrate on ourselves and what we can do as a team, and the rest will take care of itself.”
He said the team, who are 10th on the Digicel Cup ladder, were made up of young players who needed more time to transition into semi-professional rugby league.
“We were in a similar position in 2017 when I was the coach,” Moses said.
“We struggled at the time with new players coming in.
“But one year later, the same players went on to win the title under coach Glen Nami.
“This year is just like 2017, about 75 per cent of the team are new players.
“Most of the players from the past two seasons have moved on.
“We are still building as a side and there is no need for me to be under pressure.
“We still have six more rounds in the competition to prove ourselves but the future looks bright for us.
“Regardless of whatever happens this season, I believe next year’s campaign will be a lot different.”
Moses said his men were focused on finishing the season on high note, with a place in the top-six finals still within reach.