PNG Women National Team manageress Deslyn Siniu has called on all Papua New Guineans to get behind the team as they go into the third and final camp in New Zealand for the FIFA Inter-Continental Play-off next month.
The team left yesterday for Auckland via Brisbane on a Qantas flight.
She said the camp in New Zealand is part of the on-going preparations for the opening match against Panama on February 18, 2023.
“We have a young team and they need all the support from everyone despite people having different opinions on the make-up of the team,” she said.
The former PNG women’s captain said this is first time in the women football history. it’s a milestone of women football and we must get behind and throw our support for the team.
Siniu said this is the dream that former players were dreaming to play in a world cup but that did not come about during their term. Now is the team and it is a dream come true for the current crop of players.
She said they are the role models for young girls who can aspire as future players.
“We need their prayers and support which is all we can ask for,” she said.
In terms of development, she said this is a benchmark and WNT hopes to go one better by qualifying for one of three spots in the FIFA WWC in New Zealand 2023.
Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso was on hand to bid farewell to the women’s team at the Jackson’s International Airport before their departure.
Travelling Team: Faith Kasiray, Betty Sam, Margaret Joseph, Charlie Yanding, Lucy Maino, Isabella Natera, Olivia Upaupa, Rumona Morris, Daisy Winas, Asaiso Gossie, Gloria Laeli, Kesai Kotome, Michaelyne Butubu, Shalom Waide, Calista Maneo, Ivonne Gabona, Philis Pala, Ramona Padioa, Nenny Elipas, Karen Kalapi, Anasthasia Gunemba, Rayleen Bauelua.
Management: Edna Thomas, Susan Watpore and Deslyn Siniu.