NSL midfielder Emil helps Genesis edge Keleiruna

A FIRST-HALF goal by Gulf Komara midfielder Rupa Emil saw Genesis claim a 1-0 win over Keleiruna in the premier division of the Port Moresby Soccer Association competition on Sunday.
The resumption of the 2021 season over the weekend saw Genesis get on the front foot with veteran defender Andrew Lepani leading the backline and Jessy Niebo dominating the midfield.
Keleiruna, led by forward Karo Ila, were keen to stamp their authority after they won the association’s Youth Challenge tournament earlier this month.
A somewhat quiet opening half saw both sides struggle to find opportunities on goal with Emil finally breaking through to score in the 33rd minute following a great build-up from the midfield by Niebo and fellow forward Emmanuel Simongi.
Genesis maintained their 1-0 lead despite Keleiruna coming out strongly in the second half with forwards Keith Ila and Peter Karo punching through for shots on goal, however, poor execution in their attempts would see Genesis hold on to their one-goal lead until fulltime.
Meanwhile, Seeadler came out strongly in Sunday’s opening fixture with a 4-2 win over former champions PS Rutz while Maclaren settled for a 1-1 draw with University.
Association match coordinator Peter Mathew told The National that the competition would be playing its remaining fixtures for the 2021 season before the semifinals.
“Almost all our divisions have completed their regular fixtures for the 2021 season,” he said.
“But, we will be confirming the ladder for each division once we complete all our matches.
“We will then move straight into the semifinals with the Under-23s to start.”