Mungkas FC set to defend PMSA title

The Port Moresby Soccer Association (PMSA) reigning champions, Mungkas FC, defeated this year’s minor premiers, Keleiruna FC, with a 3-1 win in the Men’s Premier Division Grand Final qualifier on Sunday, 9 August 2026, at Bisini Sports Ground. 

Mungkas have booked their spot in the grand final, while Keleiruna have one last shot with a grand final rematch when they go head-to-head with the Blue Kumuls FC in a do-or-die clash this weekend. 

The eventual grand finalist dominated the first half, scoring 2 goals and keeping Keleiruna scoreless at half-time. Mungkas bagged another goal in the second half, and Keleiruna netted a consolation goal. 

Out of 18 matches played this season, the PMSA defending premiers recorded 9 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses, finishing second on the ladder at the end of the regular season. 

Team Manager Roger Redenut said they had defeated Keleiruna in their previous two encounters, giving his men confidence to shut down the Central lads.

“We believe we held the psychological edge going into the final. We’ve beaten Keleiruna twice this season, so the boys knew we could do it again,” he said. 

Despite the strong win, the grand final is a different ball game, with Redenut admitting that there is more work to be done.

“Ball retention is key. We turned the ball over too often against Keleiruna and allowed them to camp in our half for long periods. We’ll work on keeping possession and making better decisions under pressure,” he said.

He explained that the team’s preparation ahead of the decider had been good, with the players working on their combination and sticking to the process.

“We’ll stick to the same winning formula that’s worked for us over the last month. We’ll also put in some extra work on penalty taking, just in case it comes down to that,” Redenut said. 

The team manager noted that they had the finals experience and have what it takes to be competitive on the biggest stage. 

“Experience counts in finals, and we’ve been here before. It’s business as usual. Stay calm, trust the process, and execute,” he said.

Mr. Redenut acknowledged the fans, sponsors, and families for their continued support, which keeps boosting the team’s spirit.

“A big thank you to our support base and families, who have been with us through it all. Their backing gives the boys that extra push,” he said. 

Mungkas remains hopeful of retaining the PMSA title and looks forward to meeting the winner of Keleiruna and Blue Kumuls in the grand final. 

Established in 2011, Mungkas is a club from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARoB). The club is based in Port Moresby and participates in the Port Moresby Soccer Association.