Tigers: We are a family

By LARRY ANDREW
The Lae Snax Tigers are keen to build their success around the bonds they share with their families.
During Tuesday’s launching of the club’s season, coach Stanley Tepend said the Tigers were a family team as some of the players had started families while playing rugby league.
Among the players and their families at the launching were franchise owner Adrian Chow, representatives of sponsors Seeto Kui, Niugini Oil Company, Goodman Fielder International, Hawkeye Security, Classic Engineering, Prima Smallgoods and Wenet.
“We’re trying to keep this a family team. So it is a special night, especially for the families to come and wish the Tigers the best this season,” Tepend said.
He said the Tigers were looking to defend the Digicel Cup with their families’ supporting them.
“We lost Charlie Simon and John Andy to the PNG Hunters this year,” Tepend said.
“They join (former Tigers) Willie Minoga and Butler Morris, bringing the number to four.
“In 2017, we had about 23 players but with the inclusion of the academy players this year, the number has gone up to 29.”
The Tigers play Gulf Isou in game one in Port Moresby this weekend.
Tigers squad: Sydney Fred, Robert Vuai, Paul Mugua, Anderson Benford, Mafu Kalas, Charles Martin, Kerry Tapako, Enoch Sine, David Lapua Niki Pilyo, Junior Rop, Billy Paul, Jojo Wallamas, Mark Piti, Wesa Tenza, Edwin Ipape, Joe Joshua, Rex Yallon, Tiger Emere, Casey Dickson, Eliud Hosea, Jason Misian, Shadreck Maima, Jacky Winas, Joseph Konz, Scott Francis, Ishmael Balkawa, Paul Kambi, Noel Joel.