Reigning champions keen to retain titles

By HENRY MORABANG
DEFENDING champions 09ERS of Madang in the men’s and Manolos of Lae in the women’s are all set to defend their titles at the Inter Oil-sponsored PNG Softball Federation club championships in Port Moresby this weekend.
The Madang champions will have a mammoth task because they face stiff opposition from United Brothers, Port Moresby Dolphins and Lae’s Admiralty Marlins.
In the other men’s pool, Port Moresby champions PNG Power will meet Kalibobo Reds of Madang and the two Manolos teams from Lae and Kavieng for the final spot.
In the women’s pool matches, Lae Manolos will clash with Port Moresby Sisters, Port Moresby Gazelle and Kavieng Karanas who should give the Morobean side a good run for their money.
In the other pool, Port Moresby Bears should emerge as favourites against Madang Kalibobo and Lae Stormers.
PNG Softball Federation vice-president Ralph Tarasomo said it would be a tough match for the teams.
He thanked major sponsor InterOil and Air Niugini for providing discounts in airfaires to allow players to travel to Port Moresby for the event.
The competition is expected to pitch off at the Bisini softball diamonds this morning.
PNG Softball Federation president Chris Bais said it was relief for some clubs who are sending both men’s and women’s teams to participate.
Bais thanked the executive management of Air Niugini for their generous support.
“The spirit of the games is something we always look forward to as part of our Independence celebrations,” he said.
The official opening will be on Saturday, and the LOC is appealing to clubs to bring their provincial flags and banners. The grand final is on Sept 18.