Touch team misses out on World Cup

By KEVIN TEME
THE Papua New Guinea Touch Federation (PNGTF) will not be sending the open’s men team to the World Cup (June 22-26) challenge in Edinburgh, Scotland, due to insufficient funds – the K2,500 levy put on  players from outside centres  has proven to be too much.
Sources within PNGTF revealed on the weekend that the several players selected from Popondetta, Oro, were not able to come up with the levy fee causing the PNGTF to call off the attendance of the men’s side to the international event.
For the open mix and the open women, they have a chance today to finalise their trip or miss out as well.
Attempts to contact the PNGTF president Joe Yoreyesterday were unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, the Port Moresby corporate touch competition ended its industry of origin on the  Queen’s birthday weekend.
President John Bonot said: “Once again the Blue camp was just too good for the Whites winning the industry of origin series since 2004.
“The presentation will be made this Sunday before the masters games.
“Congratulation to the Blues and we’ll see if the Whites can turn the tables next year.
“We will also be announcing the Port Moresby corporate touch team for the national tournament this weekend,” Bonot said.
“The national tournament will be held from Sept 16-18 and we are hosting it.”  
Meanwhile, with only two rounds remaining before the finals, Bonot also confirmed that most of the clubs have chosen the first option for the finals format and would go for that with the top eight playoff system to be used.