Stallions relish big test

By NATHAN WOTI and JOSEPH REMA
COMPEITION leaders Hekari United take on the feisty Tusbab Stallions in the main match of a Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League fifth round double header in Port Moresby’s PNG Football Stadium tomorrow.
Stallions coach Rachael Wadunah told The National her side was looking forward to the encounter as their ultimate test in the NSL.
“Hekari is a champion team and to play them is something special for me and my players,” she said.
Wadunah said her young charges would relish the challenge of taking on the multiple title winning club and test themselves against some of their heros.
“It is an honour and the players are excited. Most of them are fans of Hekari’s players so it will be interesting to see the boys play against them.
“It will test our strength as a team in the competition and where we are at the moment with our game plans and fitness,” she said.
Wadunah said they were being realistic with their expectations heading into the match and would gain from the experience whatever the result.
Meanwhile, Hekari coach Jerry Allen said preparations for tomorrow’s match were progressing well with his side, despite its huge edge in experience and form, unlikely to be complacent or take the Stallions for granted.
“We won’t take Stallions lightly because they’ve been winning their games and are running third on the NSL ladder,” he said.
“I’ve got my key players ready to go against Stallions with David Muta, Michael Foster, Golu Kepo and several others.”
Allen was also pleased with Solomon Island international and Hekari goalkeeper Anthony Talo.
“He fits in well with the boys and he did very well in his first game, so it shouldn’t be a problem when we take on Stallions this weekend.”