POM softball teams race for finals places

DOLPHINS must win their A-grade match against Mantarays in the Port Moresby men’s softball competition this Sunday and with two games remaining before the final five is decided, Dolphins need a win to consolidate their position.
Dolphins are on 14 points while archrivals Bears, who are on 13 point, are expected to make easy meat out of Samurai.
However, Samurai, who are are  on 12 points are  making a last ditch to break into the final five positions and will treat their match against the Bears seriously.
Former PNG International pitcher Esau Vinarang, who successfully led Madang to premiership title at last year’s National Softball Championship, will have to be at his best form this weekend for Samurai.
Vinarang needs the support from his infielders and outfielders to turn the tide on Bears.
In the opening match, Gazelle should have no problem against Stanley Tavul’s Kopex.
Gazelle has picked up good form in the remaining games with veteran hurler Patrick Pilak displaying his old form as the best pitcher in the business.
Assisted by Peter Urari and young opening batters Demas Totil Jr and Steven Tovue, Gazelle look a more imposing team against the Kokopo boys.
Brothers led by skipper Dick Bart Jr should give Defence a good run for their money.
Defence skipper Danny Mong should lead the team in batting while he needs good support from his fielders to cut down Brothers batters and runners.
PNG Power and Brown Eagles should keep the spectators on their toes.
Brown Eagles almost upset Gazelle last weekend. If they repeat the same performance, the Eagles should beat PNG Power.
Power, who are competition leaders, should pay more attention to the Eagles tactics if they are to win this match.
The point ladders as of last weekend stood as: PNG Power 27, Brothers 22, Gazelle 21, Mantarays 17, Dolphins 14, Bears 13, Samurai 12, Brown Eagles 9, Kopex 8 and Defence 7.
Meanwhile, the president of Port Moresby men’s softball competition Ralp Tarasomo confirmed that there are three more games before the finals.
He said all season games would be completed by Feb 28 and the semi-finals should begin in March 6-7 with the grand final tentatively slotted in for March 20.
Tarasomo called for cooperation from all club officials to follow  the right appeal procedures instead of questioning the scorers or umpires.
 “There were many supporters or sideline critics who want to question the technical referees but they don’t even take time and appreciate to come and support the code technically,” Tarasomo said.