Mai leads Tribz in Agmark 9s tourney

DIVINE Word University student Jimmy Mai is ready to lead Grynaus Tribz when they face Kenabot Jets in round five of the NGIP Agmark 9s rugby league challenge at the Kalabond oval tomorrow.
Mai, who will be graduating with a bachelor in PNG Studies from the Divine Word University in Madang has a huge task on his hands to help his side break the losing streak.
Mai was scouted by Agmark Gurias coaching director Michael Marum playing for the Madgauns in the rugby 7s circuit in Rabaul last year.
In an e-mail to The National, Marum said Tribz would be depending on Mai to take the lead against the Jets, who will be missing the services of Gurias pair Chris Jerry and Joe Bruno through injury.
Steven Nightingale will be at the helm for the Jets if they are desperate for a win.
“Tribz are new in the competition.
“Despite their standing on the ladder, all eyes will be on coach Mosong Kivung on how he utilizes Mai to get the results,” he said.
“Mai, a new recruit for the Gurias this season is the man to watch as he tries to inspire Tribz to bounce back to the winners’ circle.”
In the other interesting encounter, Hardware Hammerheads lock horns with new-look Steelers.
Hammerheads will go up against an experienced outfit in the likes of Gurias’ Boas Ruru, Leo Tikot Jr and former PNG Pukpuk Gina Ponda.
However, they should not be written off. They will be relying on Alfred Hosea, Samuel Tiutiu, Phantomist Ngala, Alois Waileng and Serry Sakias.
The Agmark 9s judiciary committee headed by East New Britain radio personality Terry Longbut has also clamped down on discipline.
Marum said the committee had been tough on players’ conduct resulting in the suspension of four players.
The players will miss a couple of games.
The disciplinary action was taken to ensure families, friends and spectators enjoy the games every weekends.
The competition enters the fifth and sixth rounds this weekend.