Palais eye better fitness levels

 THE Papua New Guinea Palais’ preparation for the Asia Pacific Women’s Rugby 7s championships in Shanghai, China, is on target.

After a disastrous campaign in Noosa earlier this month Palais coach John Larry said fitness an area that the side needed to improve on.

 The Palais, playing with just seven players due to visas issues for several squad members lost badly to Australia (48-0), New Zealand (48-0) and Fiji (54-0) in Noosa and Larry said the side was determined to make amends in Shanghai.

The team is expected to be at full strength in playing numbers this time around Larry assured. 

The 12 member side has been at training this week at Monier Park with Larry ahead of their departure on Friday.

“We have to get fitter so we can stay competitive throughout matches,” Larry said.

“We’ve run the girls through some very intense workouts to help them play tougher and stay competitive in all areas.

“Sevens rugby is mostly about speed and fitness and these are the ares we are targeting.”

The team has also benefited from the advice of PNG Rugby Football Union development officer Sailosi Druma. 

Druma, an IRB-certified referee has been a regular at sessions offering tips on the different facets of the game. Druma, from Fiji but a long time resident of Port Moresby, has been focusing on the forwards and the contact area.

PNGFRU selectors have maintained the same team from Noosa and team spirit and confidence is high as the women look to win matches in China.