by Skola Sengi – EM TV Sports, Port Moresby
While much of the emphasis has been placed on the national sevens team, the Pukpuk 15s have begun their preparation and campaign in the lead up to the Federation of Oceania Rugby Union Cup.
Trial matches were held over the weekend, with Nigel Genia making a comeback from Romania.
While the national 15’s team have slipped under the radar in the last few months, they have also embarked on a campaign to take the FORU cup off reigning Pacific champs, Cook Islands.
Last week saw the first of many trials to come for the team, as they prepare for the tournament, expected to be held and hosted in Port Moresby, following the 2015 Pacific Games.
Team Manager, John Havora, confirmed the boys will head into a steady camp in the next two weeks.
Halfback, Liebert Suang, who has been an integral part of the core team in recent years, has said the team will be ready, but they must focus on fitness, and their defence in particular.
The only change and potential inclusion to the side is younger brother of star Australian half back Will Genia, Nigel.
Genia had just returned to Papua New Guinea after a 6 month campaign in Romania, with a rugby franchise.
The team will be confirmed in the lead up to the FORU Cup, next month.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=S7zQCR5jqcA%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
