Pukpuks name squad
The National, Monday 17th June 2013
By JOHN PANGKATANA
THE cream of Papua New Guinea players were on show for national selectors to finalise spots for the Monier Pukpuks to take part in the Oceania Cup from July 1-14 in Port Moresby.
A trial match played in Port Moresby on Saturday saw several certainties in Madang-based back-rower Gabriel Biyama, Unitech student Ryan Sambath at prop, Lae’s loose-forward Butler Morris, stylish halfback Kumalau Auru, Brisbane-based Ralph Susuve and playmaker Jonah Kautu Jnr nailing down his number 10 jersey in a sterling performance with older brother Tisa in the centres.
In the finishing department, there was an abundance of talent in Autonomous Region of Bougainville’s Hubert Tsereha, Kokopo’s Albert Levi Jnr and Jason Missian.
The Monier Pukpuks: Mick Rau, Joshua Vakona, Ryan Sambath, William Maniot, Aaron Miai, Leme Tole, Geti Raka, Gabriel Biyama, Keto Neheja, Kapua Kapua, Mike Mire, Philip Suapo, Butler Morris, Donald Kais (forwards) Libiert Suang, Jonah Kautu Jnr, Albert Levi Jnr, Ralph Susuve, Tisa Kautu, Henry Liliket, Hubert Tsereha, Jackson Pato, Morea Pease, Robert Bulumaris, Dougie Guise and Adeck Naio.
Shadow players: Ahulo Ottio, Ezra Kautu, Wesley Thomas, Kingsley Sarufa-Lea, Kumalau Auru.
The national selectors are Alan Manning, Billy Rapilla, Warren Jennings, Greg Bourke, Adam Hill and Frank Genia.
Team training camp begins on June 25 in Port Moresby.