PNGFA clarifies ban on 18

BY NATHAN WOTI
UPNG journalism student
THE Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) says 18 men’s national team players have been suspended from representative duties and not the Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League (NSL).
Following their 0-3 loss to Hekari, Star Mountain had asked PNGFA and NSL to clarify the suspensions, given to some members of the banned group who were fielded by United.
But PNGFA general secretary Dimitri Mileng said: “The suspension did not disqualify the players from playing (in the NSL).
“The suspension disqualified them from being involved in the national team, so players concerned will not be selected into the national team for the period of their suspension.”
Last week, Hekari owner Vonnie Kapi Natto made a public apology in regards to her banned players.
“The seriousness of the problem is not yet known,” she said.
“I’m still waiting for a letter from PNGFA to tell me what had really transpired.
“But I believe in discipline and what our boys were doing while representing our country was uncalled for.
“I have all my players concentrating on the NSL.
“But before we kick off our campaign, we have to start with an apology for what had transpired so that we have no grudges against anybody.
“I’m tough on discipline, not only to develop the club but for the betterment of my players and the country as a whole.
“It was disappointing to hear that some of my players were involved in the situation which was unexpected.”