Parkop backs Lagatois

Governor wants two more Port Moresby clubs in Digicel Cup

By ROBINSON LEKA
NATIONAL Capital District Governor Powes Parkop has called for two more Port Moresby-based rugby league franchises to be included in the Digicel Cup.
He said Port Moresby had a good supply of talent with competitions established in all the three electorates. Currently, the National Capital District Commission-backed Port Moresby Vipers and Central Dabari call the Oil Search National Football Stadium home.
But Parkop said securing corporate sponsorship for the franchises was a challenge.
He said proposed franchise, the Lagatois, could represent the Motu-Koitabu people of Port Moresby.
“I would like to see for a start the Lagatois getting into the Digicel Cup,” he said. “I’ve seen them play and I know that they match any other team in the country.
“The only obstacle is getting a major sponsor by next year (2021) I want see the Lagatois in the intercity competition. “If we have three franchises, I would be satisfied because we have a big player base.
“There’s not enough avenues for them and some can be seen playing for other franchises around the country. If they’re looking for players, Port Moresby is open.
“This is the heartland of rugby league. Port Moresby has been producing great Kumuls.
“There’s great potential here but it has not been harnessed.”
Parkop said the suburban leagues could act as feeder competitions for another city franchise.
He also called on corporate sponsors to come forward and back the proposed franchises to create more pathways for emerging rugby league talent.