Saonu praises Tigers, City

MOROBE Governor Ginson Saonu has praised the efforts of two of the province’s elite sports teams in the Lae Tigers (rugby league) and Lae City (football) for reaching the grand finals of their respective competitions this season.
He said both reigning champions had shown resilience and consistency all season and were deserved grand finalists in the Digicel Cup and Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League.
“Sports are a development tool and the Morobe government fully supports all codes to thrive in the province,” Saonu said.
Saonu acknowledged sponsor Lae Biscuit Company for its long-term dedication and commitment towards both teams.
He said City had an impressive season despite offloading key personnel, including star players and their foundation coach, and fielding new players to challenge fellow perennial contenders Hekari United.
Saonu said he was looking to develop soccer in Morobe by backing more tournaments as it was the province’s main sport.
He said sports also promoted unity, peace and healthy living, and also had a positive impact on communities by giving youth avenues to express themselves and remain occupied.
Saonu said that during a trio of sports tournaments at Buang Compound, 3-Mile, yesterday.
The Office of the Morobe Governor sponsored the week-long soccer, touch and volleyball tournaments with K20,000.
He said he has initiated a interprovincial border development programme that accommodates sports tournaments in the border areas of Morobe. The provinces that share boarders with Morobe are Gulf, Eastern Highlands, Madang and West New Britain
Saonu encouraged good sportsmanship during the tournaments.
He said more areas of Morobe had been identified and several sporting events would be scheduled this year.