Mioks sideline Sipa, pick Laka as acting coach

By JACK AMI
THE Enga Mioks board has appointed former Papua New Guinea Hunters playmaker Roger Laka, pictured, as the acting head coach with 12 rounds remaining.
Mioks chairman Philip Kepson said Laka had replaced Joe Sipa who was sidelined two weeks ago due to the team’s poor campaign so far this season in the Digicel Cup. Kepson said Laka was the acting coach since round 10 “when we played the Lae Snax Tigers and won 22-18 at home, and drew 12-12 with the Port Moresby Vipers at National Football Stadium over the weekend.
“These are the two results under his guidance,” Kepson said.
Kepson said as the minor premiers and grand finalists last year, the club expected better results this season.
“After nine rounds, we were at the bottom of the ladder, winning three and drawing one,” he said.
He said in round 10, the involvement of Laka as the acting coach had boosted the team with a win and draw, with their players’ performance improving.
“The board is not blaming coach Sipa for the poor performance,” Kepson said.
“But he is responsible for selecting the team and game plans for the weekend matches.”
He said the board would make a decision tomorrow regarding Sipa and appointment of Laka.
Kepson said the board was considering Sipa’s future as head coach.