POMRFL eye matches without fans

PLAYING rugby league matches behind closed doors is an option as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Port Moresby Rugby Football League chairman Dr James Naipao.
“The need to reject or accept spectators to games will be decided by the board of management on a weekly basis,” he said in a draft of standard operating produces (SOP).
Naipao outlined health and safety measures that may be adopted in order to kick off competitions around the country.
“Each grade will have its own uniform,” he said. “It means there will be no sharing of uniforms.
“Benches will be two meters apart and no more than eight persons (per team) will be allowed (four substitute players, a coach, trainer, sand boy and medic).
“Medics and trainers attending to injuries must wear a face mask and a pair of gloves. An injured player will be referred to a Covid-19 health facility.
“No betel nut chewing and smoking will be allowed inside the facility where the game is being played.”
The SOP’s objective is to prevent rugby league from becoming a source of Covid-19 infections.
While running competitions, league will assist in the Government’s ongoing efforts to contain and mitigate the virus, Naipao said.