Recently graduated with a degree in business, newly appointed vice captain of the PNG Men’s National Football Team, Alwin Komolong, is confident in his sides preparations, ahead of their match against Solomon Islands.
For the 24-year-old from Madang, his only concern for the immediate future is not in employment, but on the pitch, with his mind firmly set on the qualifying match against the Solomon Islands in four weeks time.
Komolong has been a regular feature for Papua New Guinea, rising through the ranks of the national youth team, before securing his spot in the senior side.
He believes that despite the struggles faced by the current team, heading into the new stage of world cup qualification, the side has emerged stronger and as resilient as ever.
The finest example, that March 23 Qualifier against Tahiti. 25 minutes in and confusion all around.
The loss of midfielder David Browne early in the match against Tahiti however, showcased the new mindset of the PNG squad – with one man down, they still managed to take the centre of the field, and both dominate possession, and score with Alwin Komolong himself having a hand in that goal.
Komolong has been solid in the heart of the backline for PNG, winning aerial challenges against taller opponents, and with decisive passive he has proven his ability to command from defence, a trait that has awarded him respect from his team and his coach, who recently named him vice-captain.
The history making for Komolong includes his siblings. Defender Felix also made his full international debut for the national team alongside youngest brother Kusuga, the latter, who entered the fray in the dying stages against Tahiti, and making it the first in PNGs history, that three brothers would make their appearance in the same match.
The PNG squad will assemble on Sunday afternoon for a three week camp, before heading to Honiara.
