The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Orchids are gearing up for redemption in a crucial match against the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns tomorrow, Sunday 3rd October at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby city.
In tomorrow’s Pacific Championships Cup match, the Orchids aim to bounce back from their recent 84-0 loss to the Australian Jillaroos in their first match.
The Orchids have made several changes to their squad, bringing in new faces and making strategic adjustments. Shae Yvonne De La Cruz steps into the fullback position, pushing Mala Mark to the wing following Jenny Wesley making her Test debut at centre, replacing La-Toniya Norris-Addo, who suffered an injury against the Jillaroos.
Ua Ravu moves from hooker to halfback, with Therese Aiton starting at No.9. Leila Kerowa earns a starting spot in the second row, and Sareka Mooka starts at lock.
Following their heavy defeat to the Jillaroos, the Orchids have focused on improving their defensive strategies. Coach Tahnee Norris has implemented rigorous training sessions to address their weaknesses, particularly their ruck speed and completion rates. The team has shown significant improvement, especially in their defense, which has boosted their confidence ahead of the match against the Kiwi Ferns.
Despite facing challenges such as language barriers with newer players, the Orchids have maintained a positive atmosphere within the camp. The integration of new players like Jenny Wesley and Therese Aiton has been smooth, thanks to the familiarity among the squad members from previous competitions.
The Orchids are eager to prove themselves on their home turf and secure a spot in the Pacific Cup final. With the support of their fans and the determination to make a change, the Orchids are ready to face the Kiwi Ferns and show their resilience and growth as a team.
The match promises to be an exciting clash, and all eyes will be on the Orchids as they strive to turn their fortunes around and make a statement in week 3 of the Pacific Championships Cup.
The match between the PNG Orchids and the Kiwi Ferns will kick off at 1pm.