No spectators: Manning

ORGANISERS of the Digicel Cup and Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League (NSL) have been instructed to broadcast their Port Moresby matches during the citywide Covid-19 lockdown.
In a letter to Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation acting executive director Micah James, National Pandemic Controller David Manning issued seven measures for both competitions.
They are:

• NO spectators at games;
• ALL games to be broadcast for home viewing;
• CONTINUE stringent Covid-19 protocols with added measures for conduct of teams;
• ADHERE to the mandatory mask measures for Port Moresby;
• All Port Moresby teams to be in closed camps for the lockdown;
• All special-permission request for travels for outside team’s scheduled to play in Port Moresby; and,
• OUTSIDE teams to adhere to strict fly in-fly out protocols.

“As you are aware, the Covid-19 transmission in the National Capital District alone is increasing at a very alarming rate and it poses a real threat to PNG,” Manning said.
“I approve the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (Digicel Cup) and NSL competitions to continue conditional to these measures being strictly complied with.
“Failure to comply with these conditions will result in the competitions being terminated.
“I have appointed Covid-19 surveillance and monitoring manager Dr Gideon Kendino and Chief Supt Dominic Kakas to observe the matches, on behalf of the National Control Centre, to ensure compliance.”