Australian Football League PNG Mosquitoes coach, Douglas Lai has praised the ‘Mozzies’ on claiming the inaugural 2024 AFL Pacific Cup hosted from November 14-24 at Maroochydore Multi-Sports Complex in Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
PNG Mosquitoes are ranked second in the world among 60-plus countries, who made their presence felt and belted the Nauru Chiefs with a comprehensive margin of 62-19 (10.2-2.7) in the decider to clinch the inaugural title.
Coach Lai expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the tournament, attributing the championship success to the team’s hard work, dedication, commitment, and sacrifice to be the best.
“Having international success with sports, especially for our country, gives us that feeling of great happiness and satisfaction. I feel satisfied as a coach that we have achieved the result we worked hard for,” Lai said.
He mentioned that the Mozzies not only won the tournament, but they’ve experienced various cultures from different countries in the Pacific, establishing connections, building friendships, and learning new things.
“Playing against other Pacific nations and having talented players and coaches, where all wanted to win was a great experience for me and the team,” said Lai.
“We have learned a lot from our Pacific neighbors, especially their playing culture and also playing games on ovals that are of quality standards, which was an experience as well for us.”
Lai added that there were some challenges they faced during the tournament, especially competing against talented players and trying to acclimate themselves to the new environment.
“On the playing field, having talented opposition from the participating Pacific teams was our greatest challenge,” he revealed.
“I think the weather conditions were also very challenging. We do not play that much on wet weather football in the country, so to adjust to that condition, I reckon was the most challenging thing for us.”
The inaugural AFL Pacific Cup winning coach highlighted his goals and plans for the PNG Mosquitoes heading into the future.
“Our aim moving forward for the Mozzies would be to plan better in advance for any international events,” Lai stated.
“We also have talented youngsters that have shown they are capable of making it into the team again if there’s any event forthcoming.
“Also, we have a few senior and old hands that have done the country and their families proud. However, it may be time to make way for the upcoming youngsters to continue the winning and success the Mozzies have had so far.”
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