2018 Digicel Cup

The win was sealed in the 79^th minute from a Joshua Thomas field goal that left the defending premiers shocked and shattered.

It was Isou that registered the first points from a penalty goal that was kicked by To’ope Mitaharo in the 29^th minute of the match.

 The Tigers hit the front just before half-time through Anderson Benford, who flew over on the wing.

Mafu Kalas added the extras to take his side into the break with a 6-2 lead.

There was some scrappy football from both sides in the second half which caused frustration.

In attendance were the PNG Rugby Football League plus sponsors from all the ten franchise clubs, support sponsors of the competition and naming rights sponsor and broadcasting partner, Digicel PNG.

Chairman of the PNG NRLC, Adrian Chow, said the Digicel Cup continues to grow and develop with the inclusion of two new teams – PRK Gulf Isou and Simbu Provincial Government Chimbu Warriors.

“A total of 10 franchises will be playing across seven venues in PNG. Over 300 players and 100 franchise officials, match referees and officials will be directly involved and registered.

Chairman Frederick Koldop said the squad was finalised following the successful Governor’s Cup tournament held last weekend.

The squad list:

1. Steven Pet

2. Abel Funke

3. Emmanuel Waine

4. Joda Wesley

5. Joe frank

6. Korigan Apa

7. Goi Kants Sakipo

8. Bruce Kawage

9. Joshua Nani

10. Sipa Koriki

11. Frank Kagai Jr

12. Francis Sam

13. Raven Jonah

14. Joseck Wesley

15. Wari Molu

16. Sam Ngend

17. Mosley tika

18. Solo menti

19. Bes Danny

This is the eighth year of Digicel’s sponsorship of the semi-professional rugby league competition.

CEO of Digicel Media & TV, Charlie Clementson said the renewal of sponsorship was part of Digicel’s overall goal to be the home of rugby league in the country.

 “We have NRL on TVWAN plus the Hunters games in the Intrust Super Cup as well as the Digicel Cup games.

“It’s the place to watch for all things rugby league. It’s something that we’ve strived to work towards and are really proud of.”

Gulf Isou selectors and former PNG Kumuls, Tuksy Karu and Joshua Kouoru, were present to scout raw talent for the team.

Selectors will select a Kerema based team that will travel to Port Moresby in two weeks’ time to play a Port Moresby based side to finalise the Gulf Isou team for the 2018 campaign in the Digicel Cup.

The selectors will also pick another U23 team for Gulf Isou to take part in the PNG Super 9s in Goroka this weekend.