Mendi banned from hosting Digicel Cup

THE Papua New Guinea National Rugby League (PNGNRL) has stopped further Digicel cup matches being played in the Southern Highlands capital of Mendi.

PNGNRL general manager Hubert Warupi said the decision was made following a serious incident on Sunday between the PRK Mendi Muruks and Kemele Hela Wigmen. 

The match was called off due to the referee being assaulted by a supporter. 

The Muruks were leading 19-14 with several minutes left on the clock when the incident took place at the Tente Oval. 

“As soon as reports have come in an investigation will take place,” Warupi said. 

“PNGNRL has highlighted a number of times this season concerns over the Mendi venue. Both the Muruks and Wigmen have been made aware of their duty of care to ensure the security of match officials and visiting teams.” 

Warupi said the assault on the referee was damaging to the competition and its standing.

As a result, the Round 10 Wigmen and Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles match will be played at the Rebiamul Oval in the Western Highland’s capital on Sunday. 

“Mendi is no longer a venue to host Digicel Cup matches indefinitely.” 

Warupi said the individual who assaulted the referee would be identified and banned from attending any PNGNRL sanctioned event and the PNGNRL board would take appropriate action against the team if necessary. The penalty could be a fine and or deduction of competition points.

Meanwhile, in Pool 2, the Lae Rugby League oval will see a double-header between the Enga Mioks against the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis and the Lae Snax Tigers against the Prima Gulf Isapea. 

In Pool 1, the TNA Simbu Lions host reigning champions Stop N Shop Port Moresby Vipers at the Dickson Oval in Kundiawa, Simbu.