Tigers looking to roar again

By GABRIEL LAHOC
SNAX Lae Tigers will attempt another win as they play host to the visiting Hela Wigmen at the Lae rugby league ground this Sunday.
The Wigmen with their pool of talent, have shown fans and rivals alike that they will still be a force despite being a new franchise in 10-club semi-professional rugby league competition with a 1-2-1 record.
The new look Tigers, after heavy criticism from their fans and the media, registered their first win against Prima Smallgoods Gulf Isapeas with much fanfare in Port Moresby last week, where their cheer girls entertaining fans in the nation’s capital.
That win has pushed Lae from the bottom of the competition table leap-froging Isapeas and giving them valuable confidence and momentum.
Tigers, who shone last week, were two-try hero John Waka, forward Jerry Kutz, veteran James Meninga, Wanpis James and Dama Philip, who like the rest of the team will be out to put back some lost pride from the Lae fans as well as win over some new fans.
Tigers coach Joe Verani said confidence was a big factor for his boys, and he would like to see them holding their heads high as they face-off with the Hulis.
Lae has been experiencing wet weather for the the week, which should the surface of the playing field in good shape. 
If the pressure is on the home team, the visitors after losing to the Mioks are also anxious to prove themselves in front of the Lae crowd which should have a more than a few of Lae’s Hela population in the stands along with those coming from the Southern Highlands.
Meanwhile, the popular Tiger girls whose presence was missed last Sunday are set to give fans their money’s worth.