Rama stars for City

By PATRICIA KEAMO
VETERAN rugby sevens international Fatima Rama has boosted Port Moresby City’s attack in the Southern Conference of the Women’s National Soccer League.
The 39-year-old, who will turn 40 next Thursday, delivered a player of the match performance to help City beat Amoana 5-1 in round four at Papua New Guinea Football Stadium on Saturday.
City head coach Frederica Sakette hailed Rama’s athleticism as an asset to the Port Moresby Soccer Association team.
“Rama has also motivated the squad,” she said.
“Since she hasn’t played football in a while, we’ll be working on the technical aspect of her game but she’s just a joy to coach.
“I wasn’t sure if she was going to come back but I was surprised when she turned up for training last week.
“We are certainly excited to have her back.”
Rama was a forward in the national soccer team before she switched to rugby union.
The Western native, who is preparing with the national team for the upcoming World Rugby Sevens Repechage, said she decided to play with City in her free time.
“I’m committed to training with the Palais (national women’s rugby union team),” said Rama, whose player of the match award was sponsored by bmobile.
“But in my free time, I attend training with City.
“I was asked to come back because most of our players had pulled out of the squad, so I agreed to return.”
As a senior player, Rama said she aimed to use her experience to motivate her younger teammates.
“Although age is catching up with me, I want to keep playing to pass on my knowledge to help develop their skills,” she said.
“So whatever they learn from me, they can carry with them in their football careers.
“All in all, I am thrilled to be playing football again.”