Poro aiming to edge Sepik

By LARRY ANDREW
NORTHERN Conference winners Poro will be looking to head into next week’s semifinals with a win over runners-up Sepik in the final round of the Women’s National Soccer League at the PNG Football Association Academy at 11-mile, Lae, tomorrow (11am kick-off).
After their match, Rainy Lae will battle Morobe Tulip (1pm) and Bara will face Markham Raings (3pm).
Tusbab Laidamon travel to the Eastern Highlands capital of Goroka to face hosts Pacific Gardens (3pm).
In their last meet in round seven, Meagan Gunemba-captained Poro had the last laugh, defeating the Sepik 4-0.
Sepik had Poro under the pump but were unable to convert the pressure into points.
Poro coach Troy Gunemba told The National that Sepik would be determined to rebound from the loss, so they would need to remain focused throughout the game if they were to continue their perfect start.
“Both teams have qualified for the finals and I believe Sepik will be determined,” he said.
“But we will treat this game as a final.
“We’re yet to drop points this season and we’re determined to continue our streak.
“We will not take them lightly.
“We’ve being hard at training and will retain the same line-up.
“We are not underestimating our opponents as they are a top side too.”
Sepik coach Gordan Torovu said the match would provide the perfect lead-up to their semifinal against Southern Conference winners Genesis.
“It will be a tough match but we are prepared to face Poro,” he said.
“We don’t how they will approach the match, but we’ll just concentrate on our game plan.
“We’ve been working more on our attack and I’m confident that my backline can contain Poro’s strikers.
“Our midfield is good but we’re working on some areas that need improvement.”
Fixtures: Sat, March 6 — Sepik v Poro, Rainy Lae v Morobe Tulip, Bara v Markham Raings, Pacific Gardens v Tusbab Laidamon.