The women’s reigning champions of Port Moresby Hockey Association, Wanderers have defeated Sunam with a 3-0 victory to retain their championship on Sunday, October 6th, 2024, at Sir John Guise Hockey Pavillion.
The Wanderers led the contest 1-0 at half time and continued their dominance in the second half, scoring two more goals to beat Sunam with a 3-0 margin.
In their earlier encounter, Sunam defeated the Wanderers in the opening round and the eventual champions exacted revenge on Sunam in the big dance.
The six-time champions (Wanderers) were led by the two retired Fijian representative players, including a couple of PNG representatives. Their vast experience proved too strong against Sunam.
“It was a sweet victory as Sunam beat us in round 1 and we beat them in round 2, but had to work hard in the semi finals, where they pushed us all the way to the shootouts,” captain Farapo Sevese said.
“Our two Fijian sisters used their experience and led us in the normal season to the finals, and all the way to the grand final. Their experience speaks volumes on the field and they have been a very big part of our success.”
Captain Farapo added that she was proud of her team’s successful campaign this season and thanked the coaching staff, management and the fans for their support.
“As the captain of Wanderers WA Hockey team, I would like to thank my teammates and the coaching staff for a job well done,” Farapo said.
“Our journey this season was a tough one, as we didn’t have enough A-Grade players to start off the season. We had to pull out some of our B-Grade players to help us throughout the season.
“I would also like to say that this season’s performance has shown that we are still a great side and the defending champion of hockey for six consecutive seasons.
“And finally, a big shoutout to all our families, supporters and faithful fans of Wanderers Hockey Club. Thank you for trusting and believing in us.”
Since their inception in the competition in 2016, the Wanderers have been a dominant force, reaching the finals and bowing out in the semi final that year.
The following year (2017), the Wanderers made it to the grand final and claimed their first title and continued their championship run, snatching consecutive trophies from 2018 to 2019.
After the three-peat success from 2017-2019, the global COVID-19 pandemic came and disrupted everything.
When the competition resumed in 2022, the Wanderers reached the grand final but lost to Sunam in the shootouts.
In 2023, they mended their broken hearts and reclaimed the championship, following a triumph over the Seagulls in the hockey 5s decider.
Then in 2024, the Wanderers exerted their dominance once again and defeated the courageous Sunam outfit to defend their fortress.
In six straight years, the Wanderers girls have dominated the Port Moresby Hockey Association and made their presence known, and are looking forward to taking the competition by storm next season.
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