Mioks remain optimistic

By PARKER TAMBUA
ENGA Mioks say Sunday’s 20-14 win over Hela Wigmen will boost their confidence as they continue their premiership surge in the Digicel Cup this season.
Coach Billy Gau said after the win at Santos National Football Stadium that his men started slow in their round-one loss to Rabaul Gurias in Wabag a fortnight ago.
However, he said the round-two victory over the 2020 champions proved that his side were gaining momentum.
“We competed well against the Gurias at Aipus Oval and only lost by two points which is good,” former Mt Hagen Eagles coach Gau said.
“But I believe the loss in round one at home was what motivated the team when came to Port Moresby for the round-two game against the Wigmen.
“We know we have the players to compete well and beat any team in the competition. So we played with a lot of confidence.
“We showed our class against one of the tougher teams in the competition.
“I believe the win will boost our morale as we go forward.”
It has been 22 years since the Mioks last won the title and the current group are eager to break that drought.
The Enga government-sponsored side have recruited well this season with former Goroka Lahanis playmakers Robin Soga and Joseph Karara drafted into the side.
Gau said his men had gone through a gruelling pre-season and that they would compete hard in each game this season.