Veteran players to share knowledge

The National Sports
Papua New Guinea Orchids train-on squad member Joanne Lagona in action during a trial match between Team Black and Team Red at the Santos National Football Stadium on Saturday. – Pictures courtesy of WILLIAMSON WIE

By SULU SULI
VETERAN campaigners Vero Waula, Carol Humeu and Joanne Lagona say they are ready to share their rugby league knowledge and experiences with fellow Papua New Guinea Orchids train-on squad members ahead of the Oct 15-Nov 19 World Cup in England.
Speaking to media after an Orchids trial match in Port Moresby on Saturday, Waula who competed in the 2017 World Cup said the Santos-sponsored squad had stepped up preparations for the showpiece event.
“It has been intense since we started training a few months ago,” she said.

Central woman Joanne Lagona taking part in an Orchids training session last week.

“The trial was tough. It gave the experienced players an opportunity to play against the youngsters of the squad.
“If I make the final squad, it will be my second time to represent PNG.
“I’m prepared to play again.”
Dual international Lagona was impressive with her footwork during the trial. The former national women’s sevens rugby union team player said she was happy to share her big-game experience with the new players.
“I’ve competed in several international fixtures and I know what it is like to play at that level,” Lagona said.
“I hope my experience and knowledge will help the new players to improve their game.
“Team bonding has been great.

Former national women’s sevens rugby union team star Joanne Lagona training with fellow PNG Orchids train-on squad members in Port Moresby last week. –orchidspics

“I’m looking forward to pushing for a spot in the final squad to the World Cup.”
Prop Humeu, who starred in the Orchids’ 2019 Test match against England in Port Moresby, praised the upcoming players provide strong competition for spots.
She said their inclusion would push the squad to continue improving ahead of the World Cup.
“The majority of our 2019 squad have been dropped with new players battling to replace them in the final group,” Humeu said. The youngsters stepped in the trial against the senior players.
“It was good to see the pace of the game improve a bit.” Meanwhile, Humeu thanked major sponsor Santos for making the trial possible.