Rugby league chairman commends efforts from men’s, women’s teams

PAPUA New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) chairman Sandis Tsaka commended the Kumuls’ overall performance at the Rugby League World Cup despite bowing out of the quarterfinal against hosts England on Sunday.
The Kumuls took a 6-46 beating from England at the DW Stadium in Wigan.
However, the PNG Orchids on the other hand thrashed Brazil 70-0 on Sunday as Belinda Gwasamun scored four tries to be named player of the match.
“A disappointing result but proud of the boys’ overall performance at the tournament,” Tsaka said.
“They have been great ambassadors of our sport and country, both on and off the field.
“The girls were outstanding and let’s hope they do well in the semifinal and lock a place in the grand final.
“One major positive is that both national teams have qualified for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup in France.
“Yes, it will be back to the drawing board post-World Cup and continuing our investment in our juniors and pathways to expand these programmes.”
PNGRFL chief executive officer Stanley Hondina said Rugby League World Cup organisers praised PNG on the conduct of the Kumuls both on and off the field.
“The standards they have abided by are the highest in the sport and that is something we are proud of,” Hondina said.
“I commend team manager John Wilshere, head coach Stanley Tepend and the entire coaching staff on a job well done.”
Hondina said preparations for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup in France would commence with a strategic plan in place.
“Our girls have also created history after a 2/3 victory with a third one to come and qualifying for the semifinals as well as the 2025 RLWC in France.
“We wish head coach Ben Jeffries, team manager Cassie Davis and the entire Orchids coaching staff and players all the very best in the remaining games,” he said.
The Orchids will take on hosts England at the Emerald Headingley Stadium in Leeds on Thursday (5.30am kick off), to determine who finishes on top in Group A.