A joint decision has been made between the Papua New Guinea Rugby League Competition (PNGRLC) and the Agmark Gurias to relocate the franchise to Port Moresby for the opening period of the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.
According to a statement, this decision was made as it has become clear that due to the current renovations of the Tokua airport and its runway has resulted in the inability to ensure consistent travel for both the Gurias and visiting teams’ travel.
A staged travel in and out of Kokopo was considered, however, the cascading impact on the players, potential delay, and on-going uncertainty greatly influenced this decision.
Tony Archer, General Manager of Pathways and Performance thanked the club’s administration for raising their concerns and stated that they have been able to work on a solution for the predicament they are currently in.
“We have been able to work closely with them to achieve an interim solution that is in the best interest of the club, its players and the competition.”
“The relocation will have some impact on matches in our first few rounds. We have worked with the clubs affected by this change, and we are confident that the impact will be minimal.”
“Our ultimate objective is for the Gurias’ fans to see their team perform at home games in the second part of the season.”
Furthermore, ENB Agmark Gurias Chairman, Steven Nightingale expressed that it was a difficult decision to make but that it was for the betterment of the national competition.
“We had to make the call to relocate to Port Moresby. This will allow us to not only start the competition on time, but also ensure the well-being of all players, both our team and those traveling.”
“We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Rapopo Plantation Resort, the Sanctuary Hotel and Mr. James Pang for their incredible generosity in providing accommodation for our team during our stay in Port Moresby. Their support is invaluable, and we cannot thank them enough.”