The Vice Chancellors Cup grand final match that was called off due to bad lighting on Monday August 23, 2021 at the UPNG oval in Port Moresby will be replayed this weekend.
In a statement, PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina confirmed that the rematch between UPNG Pythons and Unitech Spartans will be played as a curtain raiser to this Sunday’s Digicel Cup grand final at the Oil Search National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
“The teams will have an opportunity to play in a world class stadium and in front of an expected huge crowd and will be televised ‘live’ throughout PNG from 12 noon on Sunday September 12, 2021,” Hondina said.
“The ‘live’ telecast will continue throughout the afternoon for the Digicel Cup Grand Final between Lae Snax Tigers and JPG Waghi Tumbe.”
“We have shared values and will work together with these institutions to see how best we can develop and build good young men and women into the community.
“Our vision is all about discipline, teamwork, commitment, hard work and for all to be successful.” Hondina said starting this year, the PNGRFL fully recognises and sanctioned the institutional competitions.
“We are happy to support this cause and showcase this relationship to a wider community,” he said.
The PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) Board has committed its support to seeing the VC Cup grand final replayed.
“PNGNRLC is pleased to give the UPNG and Unitech teams this opportunity to showcase their talents and potential, Chairman Adrian Chow said.
“Stars such as Justin Olam and Jokedi Bire who played for the Lae Snax Tigers while attending Unitech have shown that the same qualities of discipline, commitment and goal setting are required to excel in studies and sport.”
VC Cup tournament coordinator Max Andrew on behalf of the organizing committee said they were grateful to the PNGRFL and the PNGNRLC for the support in organizing the rematch of the grand final.
“When the game was called off due to poor lighting, both teams were declared dual winners, however, we are thankful for this opportunity to see a fair game to be replayed and a winner declared to claim the 2021 Vice Chancellors Cup.” Andrew said.
The VC Cup grand final replay between current holders Unitech Spartans and UPNG Pythons kicks – off at 12 noon at the Oil Search National Football Stadium on Sunday September 12, 2021. The Inter-city Cup grand final kicks -off at 3.00pm later in the day.
