Papua New Guinean’s campaign at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup saw the PNG LNG Kumuls bow out after the quarter final match against hosts England on Sunday morning, the Kumuls took a 46-6 beating.
The Santos PNG Orchids on the other hand thrashed Brazil 70-nil on Sunday morning as Belinda Gwasamun scored four tries to be named player of the match.
PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Chairman Sandis Tsaka said that it wasn’t the result anticipated for the Kumuls however he commended the PNG men’s team for their overall performance.
“A disappointing result but proud of the boys’ overall performance at the tournament. They have been great ambassadors of our sport and country, both on and off the field.”
“The girls were outstanding and let’s hope they do well in the semi-final and lock a place in the grand final,” Mr Tsaka said.
“One major positive is that both national teams have qualified for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup in France. Yes, it will be back to the drawing board post-World Cup and continuing our investment in our juniors and pathways to expand these programs.”
PNGRFL Chief Executive Office Mr Stanley Hondina added that positive comments have come from the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) organisers on the conduct of the Kumulsboth on and off the field.
“The standards they have abided by are the highest in the sport and that is something we are proud of,” Mr Hondina said.
“I commend team manager John Wilshere, head coach Stanley Tepend and the entire coaching staff on a job well done.”
Mr Hondina further added that preparations for the 2025 RLWC in France will commence with a strategic plan in place for that.
“Our girls have also created history after a 2/3 victory with a third one to come and qualifying for the semi finals as well as the 2025 RLWC in France. We wish head coach Ben Jeffries, team manager Cassie Davis and the entire Orchids coaching staff and players all the very best in the remaining games,” he said.
The Orchids will take on hosts England at the Emerald Headingley Stadium in Leeds this Thursday 10th November 2022 at 5.30am local time, to determine who finishes on top in Group A.