Lae eyes title as city hosts national touch championship

NCD women's touch team in action at the Lae Scrum Oval (Image: Supplied)

Lae is gearing up for a strong bid to reclaim its national title as it hosts the National Touch Championship this week, drawing in top corporate teams from six centres across Papua New Guinea.

Teams from Port Moresby, Popondetta, Kainantu, Gateway Kainantu, Madang and West New Britain have arrived in Lae, all determined to challenge the host city for the championship.

Backed by major sponsors Lae Biscuit Company Limited, Trophy Haus and Warrior Industries, the five-day tournament features 10 competitive teams fighting for supremacy.

Lae Corporate Team Manager, Brian Nessat, says the home side is not only ready but fully confident of winning back the title, banking on its experienced coaching staff and new talent entering the squad.

Touch teams from the Obura Wonenara District, Aiyura, Eastern Highlands Province at the Lae Scrum Oval for the National Touch Championship Tournament in Lae (NBC News: Natalie Akere)

Nessat also issued a firm assurance to visiting teams, emphasising that Lae is safe and fully prepared to host the national event.

“Lae is safe. You can walk around freely and nothing will happen to you because policing by the Lae police is very effective,” Nessat said.

The championship kicked off on Wednesday and will conclude on Sunday, 14 December, at the Lae Scrum Oval, where the host team hopes to celebrate a home-ground victory.