Origin coaches add spice to PM’s XIII clash

THIS year’s State of Origin coaches Mal Meninga and Laurie Daley will again be at loggerheads in the forthcoming Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL)-organised Prime Minister’s XIII clash in Kokopo.

In a media statement, PNGRFL interim chief executive officer Brad Tassell said it would be an interesting twist with the Australian Rugby League (ARL) announcing New South Wales coach Daley, pictured top, would be head coach for the Australian PM’s XIII team.

“With Mal lining up as Team Kumul coaching director, PNG fans will be treated to a rematch of this year’s State of Origin series,” Tassell said. Meninga, pictured bottom, is coach of the Queensland Origin side. 

Tassell said as part of the promotion to the New Guinea Islands, the PNGRFL would be hosting the Prime Minister’s XIII dinner at the Kokopo Beach Bungalow Re­sort on Friday, September 27, before the match on Sunday. The dinner will be attended by all Team Kumul and Australian players.

“It will be the first time the dinner has been staged in the NGI region and we hope that businesses in the region get behind it and support what should be a fantastic night,” he said.

He said there would be raffle prizes, an auction and a chance to meet Australian and PNG rugby league star players.

Tassell said all proceeds raised would go towards funding PNGRFL programmes for 2014.

“Depending on the amount raised we will be making a contribution back into the East New Britain Rugby Football League from proceeds raised from the dinner,” he said.

Tickets are available contact the PNGRFL office on phone: 325 9499 or email btassell@pngrlfoundation.com or Tassell on 71114699.