Players’ conduct at tournament pleases referees

PLAYERS and teams participating in the Southern regional 9s tournament are disciplined, says Port Moresby referees director Joe Peregua.
He praised the sportsmanship displayed by the players from the region.
Peregua said referees felt secure in a safe and friendly environment to officiate without fear of being threatened or harassed by the players and supporters.
He said it was the type of atmosphere referees were determined to see in all rugby league competitions throughout PNG.
“The concept is very good. It encourages village-based players to expose their talents at another level,” he said.
Peregua said if it was the dream of PNG NRL Bid team to have a PNG side in the NRL or Queensland State league then players should start disciplining themselves.
“Players have to start changing their attitudes and behaviours towards the game both on and off the fields,” he said.
He commended tournament founder and director Ivan Ravu for the inception of the tournament.
“It provided an avenue for the Papuans to enjoy their football in a friendly environment, which is safe and trouble-free,” he said.
Port Moresby rugby football league operations manager Meke Maino re-iterated Peregua’s comments, saying there was a missing link in league.
He attributed it to “discipline”.
Maino added that a peaceful environment ensured the players brought out the best in themselves.
The committee had proven that a tournament can be better organised if players were disciplined.