Lahanis veteran backing younger players to shine

GOROKA Lahanis veteran Gonzella Urakusie says he believes the younger players in the Digicel Cup side have it takes to repeat their 2018 title-winning season.
The 30-year-old told The National yesterday that he would retire at the end of the upcoming season and was keen on a coaching role with the Bintangor-sponsored side.
“I believe in the young squad we are developing,” the former SP Hunter said.
“We played a trial against the Enga Mioks in Lae a couple of months ago and I am satisfied with what I saw.
“We won that game.
“Our current players are more versatile compared with the squad we had in previous seasons.
“They are easy to coach because they pick up things quickly.
“They have gelled well and we are building a good team of young players.”
Urakusie said he was also banking on SP Hunters pair Brendon Nima and Nicky Asu to combine well with livewire hooker Charlie Buka to boost their attack in their upcoming campaign.
“Nicky (Asu) and Brandon (Nima) will provide a big boost for us and they’ll certainly fit in perfectly with the team,” he said.
“Charlie has always been an integral part of the team and I’m sure he will combine well with Nima and Hasu.
“We still have some men who have played in the 2018 grand final win over Enga Mioks.”