Tigers ready to deny Kimbe Cutters a win

By LARRY ANDREW
DIGICEL Cup minor premiers Tigers will look to rub further salt into the wounds of wooden spooners Kimbe Cutters when they meet in the final game of the regular season at the Lae Rugby League Ground on Sunday.
The Lae Biscuit Company (LBC)-sponsored franchise have been consistent all season and will want to record a commanding victory to further boost their confidence heading into the top-six playoffs, which start next weekend.
Lae’s rugby league fraternity and West New Britain community have been urged to turn up at the Ground to support their teams.
Competition manager Stanley Hondina will present the minor premiership to LBC chairman Ian Chow.
With a record of 14 wins, a draw and two losses, the Tigers are expected to account for the Cutters at home.
However, coach Stanley Tepend said the Digicel Cup was becoming more competitive every year.
Tepend told The National that their five minor premierships in six years showed the team’s consistency.
“Premierships are what inspire the players to perform consistently at their peak with the assistance of the team management and staff,” he said.
“Winning the minor premiership is just a small accomplishment as we want to make the grand final and win it. But the minor premiership has certainly given us a little bit of a push heading into the playoffs.”
For Tepend and his Tigers, it has been competitive this season with the increased number of franchises and a lot of players improving after being exposed to the SP Hunters system.
“It’s great to have good sponsors and we are lucky to have Lae Biscuit Company and all our minor sponsors supporting the team,” he said.
“It’s tough times for the country but having a sponsor that does not interfere with the team is important for the club’s success.”