Injuries force reshuffle in Kumuls line-up against England

The PNG LNG Kumuls coach, Jason Demetriou, made several changes to the team’s line-up following a couple of injuries to key players during the match against Samoa last Saturday (October 24th).   

Coach Demetriou reshuffled the backline and forwards, while blooding three debutants to face England in their final group stage match.     

Center Zac Laybutt shifts to fullback, which pushes Morea Morea Junior to the reserves, and Nene Macdonald returns to the side from illness, who will partner debutant Josh Feledy in the centres. 

Sanny Wabo and Robert Mathias will make their debut from the interchange, while Luca Moretti and Jacob Taulani will slot into the forwards. 

Jack de Belin and Khaiya Waiembi were ruled out due to injuries, making way for Luca Moretti and Jacob Taulani to fill the void in the middle-third.

The Kumuls’ mentor made necessary adjustments, creating opportunities for the fringe players to taste international footy.  

“Obviously, I’ve made a few changes to the team this week, and I’m really keen to give the players who haven’t had the opportunity to play,” coach Demetriou explained.  

“Josh Feledy comes into the centre, and Zac Laybutt pushes back to fullback, who gives us size in the back field, which creates an opportunity for Sanny Wabo to come from the bench. 

“We have a six-man bench, which gives us options in the game, depending on what’s happening.”

Coach Demetriou emphasised cutting down on errors, completing their sets, giving fewer penalties, and competing for 80 minutes to give themselves a chance. 

Despite going up against the heavily favored English side, coach Demetriou believes in the team that he has picked to play in a do-or-die clash.

Both sides are desperate to secure the semifinal spot next weekend. PNG will meet England tonight at Wollongong’s Win Stadium in Sydney, Australia.