Footy fans in the city of Port Moresby have something to look forward to this weekend, the start of the 2024 AFL season; however, they might be disappointed because the season opener will now depend on the weather.
Port Moresby AFL Association President, Mr. Douglas Lai said as per the calendar for the 2024 season, the pre- season is schedule to start this Saturday 16th March at the Colts Oval, but this might be pushed back to a later date due to the current bad weather being experienced in the city.
“If it continues to further rain throughout the week, we may have to push back the starting date because the field (Colts Oval) will be flooded, making it difficult for matches to be played on the field,” said the president.
The Colts Oval itself is located in a part of the Bisini Sports Precinct where the surface is a bit sunken from the surrounding area and therefore, whenever there is a massive storm or continuous heavy rain, the area becomes flooded, and the turf becomes very soft afterwards.
Nevertheless, it is hoped that the weather becomes fine as the week progresses.
Meanwhile, this season might see a reduction in the number of clubs participating in the competition with one AFL club facing banishment from the field for its involvement in the unfortunate on- field violence incident last year during the grand finals.