PNG Palais head off to Sydney 7s

By HUXLEY LOVAI
THE Papua New Guinea women’s sevens team, who will take part in the Sydney leg of the World Rugby Sevens Series, left the country yesterday.
The Sydney tournament will serve as a vital lead-up competition for the Palais as they prepare for the important circuit qualifying round during the iconic Hong Kong Sevens tournament from April 6-8.
The team does not have a major sponsor but has been in training for the past month.
Through it all the players have stuck it out, showing great commitment and passion for the game.
Palais coach John Larry has put the team through their paces, preparing them for top level competition.
“We had a good training camp of 25 women who competed for places in the final 12-member team that will represent the country.
“During the past week with training we were concentrating on our defence, and our decision making in the ruck area, clearing the ruck quickly, so we can use our speed out wide.
“The main areas of concern are our decision making and our discipline. In the second half our girls lose their focus due to fatigue. This is when mistakes are made and ill-discipline creeps in,” Larry said
Pace will be a major advantage for the Palais out wide, as the team counters the size of their physically larger opponents.
“Our players have the belief and faith in themselves, it’s just a matter of sticking to the game plan and staying focused.
“We are closing the gap in the score line between us and the top teams so it’s encouraging to see the improvement. And one day we will definitely beat one of the top teams,” Larry said
The PNG Palais are in Pool A along with Australia, France and Spain.
Fixtures: Fri, Jan 26 – PNG v France (10.28am), PNG v Australia (1.34pm), PNG v Spain (3.56pm).