NCD TAKES HOME 2 TROPHIES IN NATIONAL SCHOOLS TOURNAMENT

NCD enjoyed a thrilling Grand Final Day at the PNG NRL Academy National Schools Tournament on Saturday, claiming victory in both the Years 9/10 Boys and Open Girls divisions at the Santos Football Stadium in Port Moresby city in front of a crowd of over 2,000 enthusiastic spectators.

The day started with the Years 7/8 Boys Grand Final, where Central claimed a hard-fought 19-14 victory over Lae, in a match that produced some thrilling attacking play and resolute defense.

Central’s victory came on the back of an excellent performance from Sam Peter in the number 7 jersey, who showed great composure in guiding his team around the field.

The 9/10 Boys Grand Final was a major arm wrestle with strong defense shown by both teams, with NCD eventually edged past Lae 12-10. The match was always in the balance, with NCD forward Remexson Jocky being a standout amongst two packs that fought hard all day.

The Grand Final of the Girls Open rounded out the day in style with a gritty contest that ebbed and flowed, finally going the way of NCD who edged out Goroka 8-4.

NCD were indebted to an outstanding display from number 13 Georgina Michael, who had a superb match in both attack and defense and showed that she is a player to watch in the future.

A number of dignitaries were in attendance on the day including Australian High Commissioner: Ewen McDonald, PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka, NRL BID CEO Andrew Hill, Orchids Chair Celestine Ove, Senior Vice-President Digicel Lorna McPherson, Deputy NCD Governor Dadi Toka and SP Hunters Head Coach Paul Aiton.

PNG NRL Bid Pathways and Coaching Manager, Joe Grima was impressed with the quality of football that the day produced, stating, “This tournament has produced a superb standard of play and has really highlighted the talent coming through in the male and female game.

“The teamwork and sportsmanship on display all day and the closeness of the finals shows that our players are learning how to play on big occasions in front of big crowds.

“It is also great to see that the hard work being done at Academy level is paying off and that the players are learning how to transfer those skills on to the field. I’d like to thank all the players, coaches, officials and volunteers who contributed to this tournament and helped make it such a success.”