Snax Rugby League Nines tourney attracts 28 teams

THE Snax Rugby League Nines kicks off at the Lae Rugby League Ground on Thursday, with organisers set to hold the annual tournament only in Lae — unlike in the past.
Tournament adviser Kupun Wisil said in previous years, the tournament had been run in other centers before finishing in Lae.
“But now we’re only running it in Lae. We have made it a little bit bigger with 28 teams and more money compared with previous years.
“We had to push the time back because of the recent tests and national club championship.
“This is the primary selection platform for the Lae Snax Tigers ahead of next season. Current Players and anyone looking for an opportunity are urged to take part in the three-day tournament.”
The tournament is divided into four pools of seven teams. The top-four advance while bottom three will be eliminated.
The top-two will have a bye in the first round of the finals. The third and fourth-placed teams play an elimination final and the winners advance.
Cup winners will walk away with K15, 000, runners-up K7,000, third K4,000 and fourth K2,000. The player of the tournament gets K500, best disciplined team get K1,000 and well-organised side also get K1,000.
“We are looking at picking a squad for training, which begins on Jan 5,” Wisil said. “We also have the Melanesian Cup to be played in Fiji in February. We will look at using it as a trial and bonding trip for the team.”
Head coach Stanley Tepend said it was always important to start fresh after a break.