Poroman down Sandpipers to book place in grand final

By LARRY ANDREW
THE Poroman Hockey Club secured the first grand final spot of Lae Hockey Association competition after defeating Sandpipers 1-0 in the men’s preliminary semifinal on Sunday.
In the other men’s semifinal, Rapatona kept their hopes alive after beating the William Bon Jr-led Brothers 1-0 to meet Sandpipers in the major semifinal this weekend.
In the women’ preliminary semifinals, Poromeri beat Rapatona 1-0 in the sudden death playoff while Alice Fred helped defending champions Iruba edge Wanderers 1-0 to book the first grand final spot.
In the main match, Poroman’s Rex Lot led by example.
The teams had chances to score goals, but accuracy let them down.
With the clock ticking, Poroman’s Emmanuel Perry set up Thompson Jim Jr who slotted home the winner.
Perry and Jim were well supported by Lionel Hebei, Tara Matai and Colman Ananias.
Sandpipers now meet Rapatona in the major semifinal for a date with Poroman in the grand final.
The showdown between Sandpiper and Rapatona will be an entertaining match, as both sides feature players who have represented Lae and the country.