NCDFA concludes round 2 successfully albeit venue dilemma

The National Capital District Football Association (NCDFA) successfully ended the second week of its competition on Sunday, November 19, at Sir John Guise Stadium.

Teams ranging from Under 12s, U15s, U17s, U19s, U23s and A Grade Divisions have shown up in full force over the last two weekends, proudly showcasing their raw football skills. Both young boys and girls, as well as senior men and women participated in the different categories mentioned above.

With more than 70 teams taking part in the competition, at least two venues were needed to complete all the games in a day.

Initially, the teams were divided into two groups. Some teams were to play at Sir John Guise Stadium, while others were told to use the PNG Football Stadium (PNGFS) to speed up the games and finish everything on time.

However, PNG Football Association restricted the NCDFA to use PNGFS. The Coordinator for NCDFA, John Forova, was disappointed that they could not access the facility.

“I am here to run football and people who are at the top – those overseeing the operations of football must provide good leadership. If they do not lead by example and provide good leadership to promote the code, football will not grow.

“The kids are excited to play, but the way they restricted us to use PNGFS is very discouraging. I am truly disappointed, as this sort of issue can delay our games.

“I was a bit harsh today with some of my superiors right up there, but I got my point across to them that football must go on for everybody,” Coordinator Forova said.

Despite facing the slight hiccup, Mr. Forova and his team managed to complete round 2 of NCDFA competition on a positive note and are looking forward to continuing round 3 games.

“Overall, the games are going well. Although we have an issue with the venue, my President (Vonnie Kapi Natto) and our team will talk to PNGFA and iron out these issues," Forova concluded.

NCDFA is looking forward to hosting round 3 games this coming Saturday and Sunday (November 26th-27th).