“Tomorrow’s game is really important playing our first World Cup match at home,” says PNG LNG Kumuls coach, Michael Marum.
“A lot of fans will be coming in and also watching back at home. There’s a lot of pressure on us but it’s important we get off to a good start against Wales.
The Kumuls had their final training session this morning at the Oil Search National Football Stadium.
“We had the final session with the captain’s run. The 18 man-squad has been named and they’re looking forward to taking the field tomorrow.
Marum confirmed that vice-captain and five-eighth, Ase Boas will take the field tomorrow.
“Ase finished today’s session and he’s ready to go.
“The only concern is Rod Griffin with a knee injury so he’s out of tomorrow’s game. It’s a big blow to the side. We’ve got Willie Minoga coming in to replace him. Willie is an experienced player who has played at the top level before.”
The PNG LNG Kumuls:
1. David Mead (Captain)
2. Justin Olam
3. Kato Ottio
4. Nene Macdonald
5. Gary Lo
6. Ase Boas
7. Watson Boas
8. Stanton Albert
9. Wartovo Puara Jnr
10. Luke Page
11. Rhyse Martin
12. Willie Minoga
13. Paul Aiton
14. Kurt Baptiste
15. James Segeyaro
16. Wellington Albert
17. Enock Maki
18. Lachlan Lam
The PNG and Wales match kicks off at 3pm at the Oil Search National Football Stadium.