New-look Pom side to train for softball titles

THE Port Moresby men’s Softball is nearing its finals and already preparations are underway for the national championships  in East New Britain in April.
Port Moresby are the country’s reigning champions winning back-to-back titles since 2008 and will be taking things seriously in identifying their  players for the championships.
Port Moresby Softball Association president Ralph Tarasomo said yesterday that this year’s team from Port Moresby would be a totally different side.
“The squad that was chosen for last year’s championships in Madang have not been performing well to meet the criteria this season therefore a newlook side is promised.
“It is not going to be easy when playing away from home, especially in East New Britain, where the game has been dominated,” he said.
Last year’s champions in the Port Moresby league, PNG Power, currently hold the top of table with United Brothers in second place followed by Gazelle on the third while the Dolphins trail in fourth with the Manta Rays hovering on fifth.
The men’s A grade matches are looking forward for the finals but for one team, the Samurais’, they will have to keep up their winning streak for a place in the top five after this weekend and should improve their placing if they can perform cosistently.
The Bisini Diamonds will not only be filled with games this weekend but, also a working bee which is scheduled for Saturday.
Tarasomo said: “The initiative is a new incentive carried out by the Port Moresby  Men’s Softball Association in not only helping to keep the diamonds in tip-top conditions but to develop a sense of responsibility with the players and clubs.
“The initiative was initially trialed in Madang and had proven to benefit the clubs, individuals and the township there,” he said.
“All clubs in Port Moresby had shown their support to help look after the grounds,” Tarasomo added.
Areas around the diamonds have been marked out for each club and teams that do not participate will be penalised with  their points deducted.”