Pole joins Strikers

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea international Ismael Pole has left Hekari Untied and joined Southern Strikers for the upcoming National Soccer League season.
The 28-year-old custodian told The National yesterday that he wanted a new challenge by playing for a club that was relatively new to semi-professional football.
The Southern Highlander will be joined by fellow Hekari forward Patrick Aisa.
Pole said the Strikers were made up of inexperienced players who he wanted to help develop.
“One thing about being an experienced player among a bunch of upcoming players in a team, is that it gives you the opportunity to stand out and take lead,” Pole said.
“It’s a great platform now to really prove myself with this young team.
“Patrick Aisa also joined the Strikers so it seems like we are the only experienced players in the squad.
“My aim is to perform consistently and help the team reach the finals.
“I believe in this team and the group of players we have.
“The competition is all about winning games and to do that, I believe in hard work.
“It’s time to get to work and see what we can accomplish together as a team in the coming season.”
Pole thanked Hekari United for developing him into a high-quality goalkeeper.
“Hekari are a Southern Highlands-owned team and I come from the province,” he said.
“So all these years with them, I’ve played every game with so much passion and love for the team and where I come from.
“They made me a better player and person, and I thank Hekari and their management for looking after me.”