The first ever Santos Cup match played in Minj, Jiwaka Province between Goroka Lahanis and the Mt Hagen Eagles Womens teams over the weekend was a remarkably close game.
However, the Goroka Side proved to be the best when they defeated Mt Hagen Eagles 12-10 in a close match, with tries by Egi John, Seroge Sabumei and Yolanda Taute.
Eagles Head Coach Mr. Bobby Koke stated that despite his girls leading with 10points –8points, the Lahanis scored in the last 2 minutes the winning try through their second row.
“The girls just let their guards down a bit too early,” said Coach Koke.
“Lahanis scored 3 tries, however all conversion kicks were unsuccessful while we score 2 tries with one successful conversion kick and another unsuccessful conversion.”
This is their second back-to-back loss. So far, they have registered only 1 win and two losses in the Santos Cup, and they are now looking at improving all this in their next game this weekend.
“We will continue to focus on our defense principles, denying space and time, deny territory and focus on regaining possession and work mostly on our attack tactics.”
Koke further added that they will take this week to look at their completion rates, sticking to the attack structure by building pressure in the middles and focus on using their outside backs.
“Hopefully we can make a comeback on the competition come this weekend’s game”