Tusbab clinch Madang title

THE Tusbab Blue Kumuls claimed the Madang Soccer Association men’s title after edging Wagsford 1-0 at Laiwaden Oval on Saturday.
It was Tusbab’s Nigel Malgian’s winner that separated the two teams after extra time.
The crowd were kept on their toes as midfielders from both teams worked overtime to create opportunities for their strikers.
Surges by Wagsford strikers Michael Toli Jr, Francis Kawol and Darren Steven were diffused by Tusbab’s Nigel Malagian, Kimson Kapai, Nolan Samar and Freeman Giwi, who were kept busy throughout the afternoon.
Wagsford’s plan to press in Tusbab’s territory early proved a telling factor in the first half but it was Tusbab’s goalkeeper Jessie Mandari who kept their opponents scoreless.
After a strong talk by coach Rachael Wadunah at half-time, Tusbab came out firing to create opportunities but failed to convert their chances as Wagsford’s defensive unit led by Kim Mare and Darren Polly proved too strong for Richie Apisa and Emmanuel Yopiyopi.
The match was so gripping that supporters did not leave the field as the game went into extra time.
Both team made a few substitutions as fatigue crept in during extra time, with Tusbab sending in its youth players Morris Devi and Tuvirapa Ado.
The tactical change gave Tusbab the attacking flair on the edges, forcing errors from Wagsford’s backline.
Wagsford’s Kim Mare conceded a corner-kick with two minutes remaining in the second stanza of extra time. Max Sengum stepped up for the corner and placed the ball in the path of Nigel Malagian to seal the title with a good header.
Meanwhile, Nabasa won the title in the B-division after defeating Centres.
Kula claimed the women’s title.
The Tusbab U16 team won the youth title after defeating neighbours Centres 5-4 in a penalty shootout.