The 2023 NCD Governor’s Cup Tournament Grand Finals for all the divisions will take place tomorrow, Sunday 31st December, on the eve of the New Year to close off the rugby league matches for this year.
The Cup, Plate and Bowl Grand Finals will be held at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium along with live entertainment from Mal Meninga Kuri, ACDP Dancers and Poly Crew featuring Mikes Toto from the Skwatas band, to get things rolling before the matches.
The men and women division grand final games will begin with the Bowl grand final, followed by the Plate grand final and finishing the day off with the Cup grand final decider.
NCD Governor’s Cup Director, Mr. Billy Aki expressed gratitude to the National Rugby League Lead Game Development Officer Mr. Emmanuel Talin, for presenting two new high quality Steeden rugby balls to be used during the grand final matches.
However, the arrival to the grand finals tomorrow didn’t come without some controversies. There were complaints raised by some teams participating in the Governor’s Cup about certain breaches to the rules during the semi- finals and resulted in the delaying of the grand finals, which eventually was moved to tomorrow.
According to the Governor’s Cup Tournament Waigani Games Coordinator, Mr. John Mauve, there were arguments raised by team managements; however, were reluctant to acknowledge the bylaws and rules of the new National Rugby League, so were easily dismissed.
“It’s important to acknowledge the new rules of rugby to avoid confusion or miscommunication.”
“When we are all informed of the rules the games can become much smoother with disciplined players. Preparation is key, especially towards the upcoming grand final,” said Mr. Mauve.
Meanwhile, the tickets for the grand finals are being sold at the Kone Tigers Oval or fans can get them from the Tournament Director Mr. Aki by contacting him on 77348915.