Sia confident of Lahanis repeating 2018 feat

The Governor for Eastern Highlands Province, owner of Bintangor Trading, and the Major Sponsor of the Goroka Lahanis, Honorable Simon Sia is confident that the 2018 grand final success will repeat itself, after the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis beat the Lae Snax Tigers in the Preliminary Final last Sunday (August 27th) at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

In a throwback to the 2018 decider, Lahanis went as the underdogs and proved the critics and doubters wrong, when the then Glen Nami-coached side pulled off a gutsy 10-6 victory over the Mioks to claim the title.

Governor Sia excitedly said he has no doubt that his team (Lahanis) will win the grand final after rising as the underdogs to take out teams like the Hela Wigmen, and now Lae Snax Tigers in the semi-final.

“Lahanis is an underdog team and we are hungry for a win. There has been a drought for too long. I believe the 2018 grand final will repeat itself,” Hon. Sia said.

Lahanis’ coach, Charlie Wabo shared similar sentiments and was overwhelmed with joy that they

have made it to the grand final.

“I can’t believe we made it this far. I’m over the moon with this win. The Tigers almost won but I had so much faith in my boys that they would come up within points and they did that,” Coach Wabo said.

Both the coach and Governor were blown away by the number of Lahanis’ supporters who have

shown up and thanked them for their support and dedication.

The underdogs (Lahanis) will take on the 2023 Minor Premiers, the Enga Mioks in the Grand Final

showdown at Santos National Football on Sunday, 3rd September.

Photo Credit: Bintagor Goroka Lahanis Rugby League 2023