NSL shifts Kokopo matches

By ISAAC LIRI
KOKOPO will not host any Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League (NSL) matches until further notice after an ugly incident on Sunday, which involved the burning of houses and vehicles.
According to media reports, the fight was between Ramale villagers and residents of the Omorong Compound.
With the situation tense over the weekend, the NSL board has decided to move the New Guinea Islands Conference matches to Kimbe until the situation eases.
“In the meantime, it is risky to have games at the Ceremonial Park in Kokopo because of the incident that occurred on Sunday between landowners and settlers,” conference coordinator Tonga Esira said.
“The safety of the teams and the supporters is paramount.
“We have already sent an email to NSL manager Leslie Babaga and it is confirmed that all games in Kokopo will be shifted to Kimbe.
“The two clubs in East New Britain — Vudal Gazelle FC and FC Radazz — are aware of this arrangement and have already agreed to comply.”
Meanwhile, Esira says matches in Kimbe are proceeding well, with two more rounds of games before the conference heads into a recess.
All fixtures in Kimbe will be played at the Sasi Muthuvel Stadium.
However, there are plans to host some games in satellite venues in West New Britain such as Hoskins and Kapore.
“We might have some games hosted there in the next stage of the competition, basically to create awareness and make it fair on the supporters,” Esira said.
“West New Britain is privileged to have these satellite venues that were built prior to the 2017 PNG Games.”