PNGFA awaits response

THE Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) says it is awaiting a National Control Centre update on the resumption of the National Soccer League (NSL) season following the Sept 29 deferral.
General secretary Pius Letenge told The National yesterday that his association would act according to the update, but the nationwide surge in Coronavirus (Covid-19) cases may affect the resumption.
He said in the meantime, the association had advised all 14 clubs to consider vaccination as it may be the only option to resume the season.
“We can’t make any decision or announcement until we receive a response from the Office of the National Pandemic Response Controller,” Letenge said.
“When we do get a response, we’ll act accordingly.
“We’ve advised all club managers as our competition department continues to move competition dates.
“With reports of increased Covid-19 Delta variant cases and community transmission in Port Moresby, we’re assuming that it will affect the resumption of the season.
“We’re just waiting for approval from the authorities before we schedule mid-week matches to complete the season.
“Having said that, the best way to resume the season is vaccination — that way, we’ll protect players, officials and spectators.
“We are encouraging everyone to work together, so we can resume the season.”
To date, a few players and officials have been vaccinated while Gulf Komara is the only club to have its entire squad and officials vaccinated.