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| PM Marape Turns PNG Rugby League Losses Into Call for Stronger Teams/Photo by PNG Kumuls |
Prime Minister James Marape has called on Papua New Guinea’s rugby league fraternity to use the Orchids’ and Kumuls’ defeats against Fiji and Samoa as motivation to strengthen the country’s teams and develop its next generation of players.
The call followed a difficult day for the home sides at Santos National Football Stadium, where Fiji Bulikula secured a 40-4 win over the PNG Orchids before Toa Samoa overwhelmed the PNG Kumuls 64-6. Marape congratulated the two visiting nations, saying the matches had delivered important lessons for Papua New Guinea while demonstrating the unifying power of sport.
Marape said the performances by Fiji and Samoa deserved recognition, while the PNG teams should be commended for taking the field and representing their country.
He said the results should prompt players, coaches and administrators to examine areas requiring improvement rather than become discouraged by the defeats.
“Both teams played exceptionally well, and we acknowledge their achievements and the spirit in which they competed,” he said.
The Prime Minister also praised Fiji Bulikula for securing their maiden victory at a Women’s Rugby League World Cup, recognising the achievement as a notable moment for the team.
He said regular international competition was essential to improving playing standards and building stronger national sides across the Pacific.
Marape stressed that the rivalry displayed during matches should not undermine the relationships shared by neighbouring countries.
“Our Pacific nations share deep cultural and historical connections, and sport provides another important avenue for strengthening these relationships,” he said.
“We compete fiercely on the field, but once the final whistle blows, we remain brothers and sisters of one Pacific family.”
He thanked the Fijian and Samoan contingents, including players, officials and supporters, for travelling to Papua New Guinea and contributing to the international rugby league occasion.
Marape said the country welcomed visitors from both nations and hoped to host them again for future sporting competitions.
He said the development of rugby league in Papua New Guinea was entering an important period, particularly with the PNG Chiefs scheduled to join the National Rugby League in 2028.
The planned entry, together with efforts to expand professional opportunities for women, would make it increasingly important to build a strong pool of local talent and improve the country's preparation for elite competition, he said.
“As we prepare for the PNG Chiefs to enter the NRL in 2028 and look towards greater opportunities for our women in rugby league, we must continue building stronger teams and developing our young talent,” Marape said.
He added that the lessons from the matches should guide future preparation and support the continued development of players, coaching staff and sporting administrators.
“Sport is not simply about winning or losing. It is about bringing people together, building friendships, celebrating our cultures and creating opportunities for future generations.”
Marape acknowledged everyone involved in staging the matches, including the teams, coaching staff, officials, organisers and spectators.
While the scorelines favoured Fiji and Samoa, he said the occasion had reaffirmed the importance of respect, sportsmanship and cooperation among Pacific nations.
“Congratulations once again to Fiji and Samoa, and well done to our PNG Orchids and PNG Kumuls.
“We may have lost on the scoreboard today, but the spirit of Pacific unity, friendship and sportsmanship remains strong.
“We are one Pacific family, and rugby league brings us together.”