Rovers book first final spot

 THE Rovers booked a grand final spot after a 6-4 win over the New Guinea Islands in Mt Hagen men’s softball at the weekend.
NGI now face Drongos in the preliminary final to decide who takes on Rovers in the  grand final.
While NGI were favourites to take out the major semi-final clash, Rovers proved they were more than equal to the task.
The minor premiers under the guidance of Sebastian Tirupia, and son Terence, were forced to work overtime by a determined Rovers side.
Rovers, who had earlier lost a young player the previous weekend, were coming from a week of mourning but looked focused.
Pacific Games squad member Clifford Kouse had NGI’s batters contained.
Meanwhile, selectors named two teams for the coming national softball titles in Kokopo next month.
The championships is slated from April 17-21.
Mt Hagen Green: Kevin Turmut, Clifford Kouse, Patrick Todi, Sammy Ezekiel, Chris Kouse, Eddie Maip, Nara Kakat, Efron Gigimat, Daniel Wesley, Yahell Poipoi, Henry Tonga, David Sioni, Francis Jackson, Saku Tom, Westin Kakat, Baul Joel, Kuli Topiso, John Senta, Paul Sion. Coach is Patrick Tonga, assistant John Kouse.
Mt Hagen Black: Arthur Maradi Jr, Terence Tirupia, Jr Koi, Jr Damien, Chris Soten, Alphonse Niggins Jr, Jamaine Michael, Eric Rusiat, Mika Aisa, Jr Tonga, Charlie Kove, Peter Duffy, Oliver Palanga, Rex Kalang, Lesly Diop, Jeffery Kove, Jr Simon. Coach is Sebastian Tirupia and assistant Simon Poipoi.