Star Mountain ready to challenge NSL heavyweights

STAR Mountain team manager Jayso James So-on says the Kumul Petroleum National Soccer League club are set to give competition heavyweights are run for their money this season.
He said the change in competition format would see them take on other clubs outside their conference, which he said would be good for the development of football.
“We plan to play fair and well against seasoned campaigners like Hekari United and defending champions Lae City,” So-on said.
“Training has been slow but hopefully, we can step it up after the first three matches.
“We’re still in an infancy stage but we’d like to experience football at this level.
“The majority of my players have tasted conference football and are looking forward to the new format.
“Our aim this season is about improving our placing from sixth last season.
“Making the knockouts would be a bonus for us. Our Tabubil-based players have teamed up well with our Port Moresby-based footballers, so we’re expecting a good campaign.
“We play with a lot of respect for our opponents. We’re using the NSL for our Tabubil-based players lo learn more and improve their game.
“Our participation at this level will surely lift the standard of competition back in Tabubil.”
Start Mountain were handed their loss of the season on Saturday after going down to competition giants Hekari 0-3 in the opening round on Saturday.
They play newcomers Vitiaz United at the Papua New Guinea Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Saturday.