CEO of the PNG Rugby Football League, Reatau Rau, said Saturday’s Digicel Cup grand final that was decided in golden point was the fitting end to a very successful season.
Rau extended his appreciation to every Papua New Guinean and in particular, the franchises that supported the eight teams this season.
“The PNG National Rugby League Competition which runs the Digicel Cup became part of the PNGRFL structure this season.
“We had strict guidelines and proper competition manuals to follow. The eight teams that participated followed these rules and guidelines which made the competition a big success.
“I also wish to thank Air Niugini, Coral Sea Hotels and PNG Air for their support in kind and Digicel and SP Brewery for the continuous support of this semi-professional competition in the country.
“I also take this opportunity to thank the local leagues in Lae, Goroka, Wabag, Mendi, Kokopo and Minj for the use of their facilities.
“Also to the management and staff of the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Sir John Guise Stadium and National Football Stadium in Port Moresby for hosting some games.
“We look forward to another bigger and better Digicel Cup competition in 2018,” said Rau.
Chairman of the PNGRFL, Sandis Tsaka, finished by congratulating the 2017 champions - Lae Snax Tigers and runner’s up - Agmark Rabaul Gurias.
“It was one of the best Digicel Cup grand final games I have witnessed and I am sure many will agree.
“Congratulations to Stanley Tepend, his coaching staff and players for winning your second Digicel Cup premiership. The win also enables you to defend the Melanesian Cup to be played in Port Moresby early next year.
“To the Gurias, it must have been heartbreaking but you all must be congratulated for your efforts in ensuring the game of rugby league was the winner at the end of the day,” said Tsaka.