More international matches sought to develop Orchids

Sports

By ISAAC LIRI
PLAYING international fixtures against quality opponents will only benefit the Papua New Guinea Orchids’ development, says an official.
Orchids chairperson Ruth Waram said that when the team arrived at the Jackson International Airport on Monday.
Waram congratulated the Orchids for their efforts despite going down 48-14 to the Brisbane Broncos women’s team at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.
“I think the girls did very well and it has definitely boosted their confidence,” Waram said
“Playing against quality opponents will only build their skills and confidence.
“For many of the players, it was their first time out of the country, so it will take them a little time to build on the experience.
“The players had only five days in camp compared with the opposition, who have been training together for five to six months.
“But that’s no excuse, the Orchids put up a good fight and we can only get better.
“We will build on the experience as we plan to give the Orchids more exposure at the international level.
“A bit more time in camp would have given the players a bit more opportunity to work on their combinations.”
Waram said the match had put them in a better position to prepare for the Prime Minister’s 13 curtain raiser against the Jillaroos on Oct 6.
“We played against an opposition that have better structured programmes,” Waram said.
“That is something we will have to look at in the long run to put together a holistic approach to women’s rugby league to develop the game from the juniors all the way to the elite level.
“One way is through the Orchids partnership with the Broncos, so hopefully we can get more players to join Amelia Kuk in the Broncos side next year.”