Region sets up tier-two league

SOUTHERN rugby league clubs now have the chance to strengthen their player pathways following the introduction of the Southern Super League programme as a tier-two competition in the region.
Central Dabaris development officer Indy Verena told The National that the league concept was a separate competition for the region that would have representative teams from each province.
He said the league would allow teams to compete while serving as a player base for current and intending teams in the national competition, the Digicel Cup.
“It’s not only the Dabaris, but we have junior sides for Port Moresby Vipers, Gulf Isou and intending teams from the region,” Verena said. “This will become a pathway to the Digicel Cup.
“It will be exclusive to all Southern provinces.
“For a start, we are trying to get representative teams from Western, Gulf, and Central, and if things go well, we can bring this concept to Milne Bay and Northern.
“We’ve scheduled a date in June to get this competition running but that will be up to how quick we can get teams together.”
Verena said the Dabaris had hosted a trial match for their development players, who would form a side for the league.
“What we’re trying to do is field the best development side in the league,” he said.