The 2018 Oil Search PNG Orchids squad was announced today at the National Football Stadium.
The squad was selected following the 2018 National Women’s Championships held in Port Moresby over the weekend.
The 26 women have been selected to take on the Brisbane Broncos on Sunday, September 2nd, in Brisbane.
The team is made up of 22 players and 4 shadow players.
Southern Confederate boasts 8 players in the squad, while Highlands and Northern 4 each, and New Guinea Islands has 3.
Furthermore, 3 Australian players have also been added to the team.
Oil Search PNG Orchids squad
- Carol Humeu – Southern
- Catherine Anjo – Southern
- Elsie Albert – NGI
- Elvina Aaron – Highlands
- Grace Mark – Northern
- Jacobetha Wake – Northern
- Janet Michael – Southern
- Jenni-Sue Hoepper – Australia
- Lydia Luke – Northern
- Martha Molowia – Southern
- Melissa James – Highlands
- Naomi Kaupa – Southern
- Nicole Mato – NGI
- Ray Rambi – Southern
- Regila Wilfred – Highlands
- Roswita Jack Kapo – Southern
- Shirley Jerry – Highlands
- Shirley Joy Windaga – Northern
- Tahina Booth – Australia
- Therese Aiton – Australia
- Vanessa Nakas – NGI
- Winnie Steven – Southern
Shadow
- Angela Nenega – Highlands
- Elmah Turpa – NGI
- Charity Emika – Northern
- Lila Malabag – Southern
Head coach David Westley said in-depth research has been made into the players that have been brought in.
He said Hoepper, who played for the Jillaroos last year, was also the first female to receive the Dally M award in 2015.
“She also played Queensland. A very good halfback.
“We are lucky to have her on our side. She’s a very good leader as well,” stated Westley.
“Therese Aiton, another former Jillaroo and former Queensland player.
“She plays hooker and she’s also the sister of Paul Aiton.
“Tahina Booth, she has background in rugby league rep football in Townsville.
“Also played in other sports, rugby union. Also represented Australia in weightlifting.”
The main factors taken into consideration during selection were defense and youth.
Westley believes that the best defensive side needs to be picked as well as a young side for the future.
Meantime, the captain of the 2018 PNG Orchids will be named on Wednesday.
(From left: PNGRFL chairman, Sandis Tsaka, Oil Search General Manager-Stakeholder Engagements, Leon Buskins, Head coach David Westley with the squad list, Orchids Executive Management Committee chairperson, Ruth Waram and PNGRFL CEO, Reatau Rau)
