Passam: We can match Hekari

By BENJAMIN KOITAKA
Bougainville coach David Passam is backing his team’s ability and skills to claim their first National Soccer League victory when they face Hekari United at the Papua New Guinea Football Stadium tomorrow (3pm kick-off).
Passam said he had players such as Patrick Aisa, Abel Redenut, Philip Steven, Semi Campbell and Basil Jofari who can all match an experienced Hekari outfit.
“We all know Hekari have set the benchmark for all other franchises,” Passam said.
“I’m actually happy playing Hekari first up.
“It will actually tell you where you stand, so we have no fear in facing them.
“We want to play strong. We‘re made up of mostly Port Moresby Soccer Association champions Mungkas.
“We can win but we are playing against Hekari so it’s going to be tough.
“Having a solid performance is paramount and I’m more interested in putting up a good show to the public who will come and watch.”
Meanwhile, Hekari assistant coach Erickson Komeng said starting the season of on a positive note was important.
“We are ready to play any team pitted against us,” he said.
“Bougainville are the very good team and very experienced.
“They have a good balance of players in the team.
“It’s going to be hard game and whoever plays the best football on the day will come out winners.
“We will follow our game plan and structures set out by the head coach.
“We cannot win games only by attacking, so we have to also be good in defence.
“We will rely on skipper David Muta, David Joe and Leslie Kalai to get us home.”