Top-two Waghi claim five gongs for dream Cup run

THE Digicel Cup Awards Night on Thursday saw the Waghi Tumbe claim five awards with rookie coach Baundo Aba winning the coach of the year honour among others.
Tumbe captain and centre Joe Frank picked up the centre of the year award; Tiger Emere won the prop of the year; Supa Kokote got the lock forward of the year; and, David Joseph was named the halfback of the year.
The Petroleum Resource Kutubu-sponsored Mendi Muruks claimed three awards with try scoring machine Leon Undupia claiming the winger of the year award.
Nelson Yei was named the second-rower of the year while Muruks captain Wesa Tenza collected the hooker of the year award.
Last year’s champions Hela Wigmen grabbed a double with centre Junior Igila picking up the top try-scorers award while Allan Simbiri claimed the top points scorer.
Port Moresby Vipers’ John Stanley picked up the fullback of the year.
The Central Dabaris didn’t make the finals this year but bagged two awards — Dabaris winger Algeo Palau won the rookie of the year while club won the club of the year honour.
Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) chief executive Stanley Hondina congratulated all franchises for a successful season.
“Congratulations to the award winners and the 12 franchises for the sacrifices you’ve made,” he said.
“It has been a challenge both last year and this year with the Coronavirus pandemic affecting us.
“But all the clubs have complied well with restrictions even the vaccination they done well in getting all the players vaccinated.
“We look forward to a better season next year.”