Local teams from mostly within the Central Province took the field to a flying start today at the opening of the Southern Region Rugby 9s challenge.
The National Football Stadium will play host to the tournament over the next few days from Sunday 18 December to Saturday 24 December 2022.
This tournament is an opportunity for local teams to showcase their talents as the Port Moresby-based players stomp for glory against the small names.
In the first five matches of the day, there were pleasing results recorded in Pool A, B and C matches.
In Pool A- Erima Laumas 20 beat Enviro Panthers 12, Waidex dumped Gulf Ifearea 0, Pool B Ariku Nauna 13 edged Lako Gule 11, Western Flyers 17 beat Trail Storms 12, Pool C Poreporena Marlins 19 pipped Koiari Gogea 18, and Viriolo Sharks 16 walloped Borogis Madi 6.
As the midday matches continue, local teams are out to showcase their best with Goilala teams, Tapini Snails and Minare Storms make their debut.
They said participating in the tournament is not for glory but a feel of real rugby league with other Central Province teams.
Kisere Chiefs coach, Haoda Tau said they are not new to the tournament but are happy to be back in the 9s challenge. The Gaire team has a young and strong side that should put up a strong fight against bigger teams.
A total of 26 matches will be played today.