Laumas to meet Magpies in Fuzzy Wuzzy opener

FUNERAL Home Laumas begin their title defence when they face Taurama Siporo Magpies in Fuzzy Wuzzy Nines rugby league tournament opener at the National Football Stadium today (10am kick-off).
A total of 24 teams across six pools will be vying for a top-16 spot for the playoffs of the three-day tournament in Port Moresby.
Tournament director Manu Lofena said all the pools were competitive and no teams would be given easy ride to the playoffs.
He said rural teams from Central, Gulf and Western would be in the mix for spots in the cup, plate and bowl playoffs.
Lofena said they would give top sides like Laumas, Magpies, SSG Roosters, Rovanama, Waidex Eels, North Dingos, Miro Koivi, Southern Roosters, Royals and Gerehu Panthers a run for their money.
“These sides have several Digicel Cup players but the Laumas have maintained the services of former SP Hunters players Bland Abavu and Wartovo Puara in their title defence,” he said. “Teams like Paio Young Guns, RIL Roadsiders, Koita Cowboys and Marshall Bugs should not be underestimated as they look to make a name for themselves against the more established sides.”
Lofena said Opogo Eels had pulled out at the eleventh hour and were replaced by Marshall Bugs in Pool D. Donadabu Minas have been slotted into Pool F.
Fixtures: Wed, Dec 4 – Laumas v Taurama Siporo Magpies (10am kick-off), Gerehu Panthers v Paio Young Guns (10.20am), Waidex Eels v Kanage Raiders (10.40am), North Dingos Green v Rovanama (11am), SSG Roosters v Transformers (11.20am), RIL Roadsiders v ANGSL Falcons (11.40am), North Dingos Gold v Royals (12pm), Miro Koivi v Marshall Bugs (12.20pm), Erima Laumas v Koita Cowboys (12.40pm), Southern Roosters v Koiari Taru (1pm), MBB Marlins v Sirinumu Swans (1.20pm), Oro Settlers v Donadabu Minas (1.40pm).