PNG players making an impact in the S-League

Over the past two seasons Solomon Islands’ national soccer league- the Telekom S-League, has seen the slow but growing influx of players from overseas.

There are currently six PNG internationals playing in the Telekom S-League this season spread across three clubs.

All six players have played key roles in ensuring that their clubs stay in the hunt for the desired top two spots that will enable them qualification for next year’s Oceania Champions League, and of course the Telekom S-League title.

Playmaker David Muta, striker Tommy Semmy, and experienced left-back, Koriak Upaiga, were champions with Marist FC last, year but both Muta and Semmy have moved on to challenges with other clubs this season, while Upaiga remains with the champions.

Muta was signed by newcomers Henderson Eels and is now pulling the strings in the mid-field in the club’s maiden season in the S-League, alongside former Hekari United teammates Alick Maemae and Clifton Aumae.

Fellow countryman, Raymond Gunemba joined Muta at Eels at the start of round two last weekend and has made an instant impact.

 “He (Gunemba) is a quality player and we hope he will do a lot of good things for us in our upcoming matches,” said Eels coach, Christopher Asipara.

“He is an important element in our team’s campaign to finish in the top two positions at the end of the season and qualify for the Oceania Champions League.

“He is fitting in very well with his new team because of his experience playing quality football overseas.

The other club who has rejuvenated their hopes of a top two finis is Malaita Kingz, who have been boosted with the return of Michael Foster.

Malaita Kingz coach, Rence Talo was full of praise for his returning star man, Foster, saying the team is getting back into structure and is solid for the second round.

“The team is now getting back into structure for the second round with the return of Michael Foster to the squad,” said Talo.

 “His return to the squad has put an interest to play from the other players because he is the sort of player who plays to the final whistle,” he added.

Talo said Foster’s return will also be an inspiration for his compatriots Tommy Semmy and Jacob Sabua.

“Semmy was not available for the win last weekend but I’m pleased with our attack combination without him. But it is important to get him back in the team in very important matches against the big teams.

Another PNG player who has been a standout is experienced left-back Koriak Upaiga who has performed impressively and has started in every game for Marist FC so far this season.

Author: 
Troy Taule