Sepik pose strong challenge to group

By LARRY ANDREW
SEPIK proved that could give fellow Northern Conference sides a run for their money despite losing to Bara 1-2 in round two of Women’ National Soccer League at Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium on Saturday.
In the other results for the conference, Pacific Gardens beat Rainy Lae 2-0, Markham Raings drew 1-1 with Morobe Tulips and Poro defeated Tusbab Laidamon 2-0.
The Sepik franchise dominated early and were rewarded with a goal through Juaneth Mistera 30 minutes into the main game in the Morobe capital.
Sepik goalkeeper Pauline Nusai produced a brilliant performance, putting her body on the line to deny Bara’s Getrude Waninara, Helga Bendi, Charlie Banzelk and Desleigh Darius.
Nusai was assisted by defenders Gloria Balamus, Juaneth Mistera, Leah Karo and Phornica Nere as they stepped up their game throughout the remainder of the opening half.
The match took a twist in the second half as Bara re-grouped in attack which saw referee Scholar Kaizam awarding a direct penalty for an infringement in the 67 minute.
Eunice Nabalu made no mistake as she placed the ball to the left of the goalkeeper for the equaliser.
Boosted by the goal, Bara stepped up in attack and scored the winner through Charlie Banzelk three minutes from fulltime.
Sepik general secretary Clarence Hukahu told The National that half of his players were new to the country’s premier football competition for women.
Hukahu said they were still working on their combinations and were hopeful of an improvement in round three against Tusbab on Saturday.
“With the way we played against Bara, we are in a better position to match the top players around the country,” Hukahu said.
“Most of our players are young and with such exposure, it will open doors for them.”