Teams race for 9s title

By ROBINSON LEKA
A TOTAL of 48 teams joined the race for the fifth Justin Tkatchenko Nines title with the week-long tournament kicking off at the new Moresby South Stadium yesterday.
Moresby South Rugby League president Brown Murema told The National yesterday that the tournament had gained momentum since its inception in 2015.
“This tournament is part of our development programme and we would also like to use it to identify players in the National Capital District and Central,” he said.
“Identifying local talents is something that we’re really focused on so that we can create pathways for our younger players.
“This is one of the biggest nines tournament in the city and region.
“We’re happy to be hosting such a big number of teams this year.
“We’re picking up from where we left off after we completed the rounds for the Under-20s and women’s divisions.
“Our senior men will join the other divisions for the finals this weekend.
“It’s the first major tournament to be held in this new stadium and we know that we can deliver another successful tourney.
“The venue now adds more value to the game and it’s a place that is conducive for players so we’re happy to be hosting teams from around the city.”
The tournament was scheduled for April but was suspended following the Covid-19 lockdown in Port Moresby with the postponement of the U20 and women’s finals.
The women’s final will see South City Raiders face Vadavada United and the Tokanau Storm (Vabukori) meet Koki Magelos in the U20 decider.