Southern Zone trials underway in city

Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League’s new affliliate Tubusereia yesterday upset Gaire 12-4 on day one of the Southern Zone rugby league trials at Kaugere, Port Moresby.
Tubusereia, who started their league only this season, were the better side, showing skill and patience to come away with a valuable victory.
They led 6-4 at halftime and held off their more established league opponents to win by eight points on their debut.
In other results, Kerema edged neighbours Tei Kariko 13-12 in tight contest, while Hiri held Koita Cowboys to a 16-16 draw.
Rigo walloped another new side Gamoga 26-4 in a one-sided affair as Koiari Nagavas thumped Kemabolo 14-0.
Southern Zone champions Port Moresby Rugby League (1) beat Pom Suburban 22-18, while PRL (2) beat hosts Pom South 18-12.
This was an indication that the talent from the rural leagues were just as capable as their city cousins and selectors Gairo Pepena, Philip Boge and Kila Vere would have taken notice.
In today’s clashes at the Sir Bill Skate Oval, the two PRL teams will start as favourites for the major honours, with Pom South and Pom Suburban the underdogs and the Koiari Nagavas the dark horse.
Southern Confederate director Gwaibo Mairi said Popondetta, who had earlier indicated their attendance, pulled out at the 11th hour because of difficulties with flight bookings.
Mairi said due to this the teams agreed to have byes in pool D.
The playoffs and finals will be on Thursday.
Mairi said the trials were not about winning but to select the best Southern Zone squad for the National Zone championships next month in Goroka.
Fixtures: Day 2 – Kiunga v Gulf, PRL (2) v Pom Suburban, Koiari v Gamoga, Rigo v Kemabolo.