NSW U16s win hearts despite loss to Popondetta side

A TEAM of Australian teenagers experienced an eye-opener as scores of spectators turned out to watch their rugby league clash with a Popondetta select side in the Northern capital on Monday.
The occasion brought back memories of the 1982 clash between the British Lions and the Southern Zone in Popondetta.
The oval was surrounded by fans who wanted to catch a glimpse of the visiting Young Achievers outfit.
Played in light showers, the New South Wales (NSW) Under-16s lost 10-22, but that did stop them from winning the hearts of many in the crowd.
Both sides will play a second time with organisers expecting the friendlies to help promote the sport in the province.
This was also the first time for most of the youngsters to travel to Papua New Guinea.
The visitors donated seven sets of rugby league apparel to the Popondetta Rugby League for next season.
NSW visited the Popondetta General Hospital to present gifts to the children’s ward. They also stopped over at the craft market.