Second-choice Kalai aiming to wrestle back goalkeeping role

Hekari United custodian Leslie Kalai says he is relishing the challenge with his teammate and first-choice goalkeeper Ishmael Pole for the remainder of Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League season.
So far, the former Papua New Guinea representative has only played one game this season, which was in round one when they beat Star Mountain 3-0.
However, the 34-year old left the team due to family commitments which has seen fellow PNG international Pole step up to the goalkeeping role and has been dominant until the suspension of the season in round 10 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Kalai, who last played for PNG in the 2016 Nations Cup, told The National on Monday that he had returned to Hekari in round seven but said he has been watching from the sidelines until the disruption of the season.
“Pole has done well but I am also vying for the spot for the remainder of the season,” Kalai said.
“I believe it’s a healthy challenge.
“We provide each other advice so its great to have that friendly challenge in the team.
“My aim now is try win back to goalkeeping role.”
Kalai said despite the departure of their international players, he was confident that the Mineral Resources Development Company-sponsored side could make it to the finals and qualify for next year’s Oceania Football Confederations Champions League.
“We have what it takes to go all the way. I’ve have absolute confidence in my teammates,” he said.