2017 Hekari Central Cup

Kapi Natto said the province had contributed immensely to the success of Hekari United FC over the years in the likes of players including Kema Jack, David Aua, Leslie Kalai, Tau Winnie and Gure Gabina.

“It’s you the Central players who have made Hekari what it is today. I say that from the bottom of my heart.

“The Central players have got talent that Hekari has used over the years. That’s why the Hekari Central Cup is a way for me and my wife Vonnie to give back to the Central people and keep supporting them.”

It was a grand final rematch from last year and and one that was again tipped to go right down to the wire.

Kempa came out firing from the start but just could not find the back of the net.

But it was Papaka who struck first after Numa Kila powered one past Viniga Rupana to put his side in front in the 18^th minute.

The boys from Kalo were relentless and continued to dominate possession, testing the limits of keeper Karo Velapo.

He said this when speaking at the opening of the 2017 Hekari Central Cup yesterday.

“We all know the great benefits of sports. Apart from the health benefits, sports is also a means of bringing people together and establishing social contacts.

“I’m sure that during the course of the next three days, you will all get to know each other either on the field or off the field.

“So I’m urging all the 12 teams to be the best ambassadors for your respective villages,” said Gure.

Gure went on to say that sports promotes leadership as well.

12 men’s teams from different parts of the Central Province (with the late inclusion of Alukuni and Gemo) have registered to take part in the four-day tournament that will end with the finals this Friday.

Speaking before kick-off this morning, president of the Football Federation of PNG, John Kapi Natto, stressed to the teams on the importance of fair play and good sportsmanship during the tournament.