Round 13 to go ahead

THE Digicel Cup will proceed with round-13 matches in Lae, Goroka and Port Moresby on Sunday amid the election-related violence that is happening, according to an official.
The Santos National Football Stadium will host a triple-header with Port Moresby Vipers hosting Rabaul Gurias at 11am before Gulf Isou meet Central Dabaris in the second fixture at 1pm. The main match will be between 2020 champions Hela Wigmen and Enga Mioks at 3.30pm. Security will be beefed up for this match, given the current general election-related issues.
Mendi Muruks will host Mt Hagen Eagles at 12.30pm to kick off a Lae Rugby League Ground double-header with the main game between Lae Tigers and Kimbe Cutters taking place at 3pm.
Goroka Lahanis will host reigning runners-up Waghi Tumbe behind closed doors at the Sir Danny Leahy Oval at 2pm.
“Hosting franchises are to ensure the games proceed peacefully this weekend, in all three venues with crowd safety being crucial amid counting for the general elections in most provinces,” Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition manager Ora Gairo said.
“Crowds are encouraged to leave their political differences behind when going to watch games to ensure all the games are played peacefully.
“The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League and competition does not tolerate violence as rugby league is not just a game, but a development tool for young rugby league players, both men and women.
“Good attitudes are encouraged through rugby league and other sports, and the nation calls for good citizens at this critical time of the general election,” Gairo said ahead round 13 matches throughout the country.