WINGER NAOMI KELLY SCORED HAT-TRICK TO SECURE ORCHIDS WORLD CUP OPENER VICTORY

BY BENJAMIN KOITAKA

PNG Orchids speedster Naomi Kelly scored her first World Cup hat-trick as Orchids went on to secure a comfortable 58-4 victory over the visiting France women’s nation team.

The Women’s Rugby League World Cup opener clash at the Port Moresby’s National Football Stadium started off on a high note for Orchids with Craig Sandercock-coached side causing a one-way traffic with Relna Wuruki-Hosea, Shellie Long, Fleur Ginn and Tia Molo all scored within the opening 25-minutes of the first stanza, signalling a significant victory.

With comfortable combination between Ginn and Cynthiah Peters at the pivotal role, it later went on to unlock the four-tries haul of Naomi Kelly in the 28th, 43rd, 51st and 61st minutes.

Meanwhile, rugby convert Ivania Wong also stamped her name, crossing over for her solo put down in the 32nd minute to helped the side, claimed the first World Cup victory.

Former Netballer Tia Molo scooped the Women of the Match.
“Progress of the training during the week was good, and we come here to play the game.
“Proud of the girls.
“We will prepare from here to take on the Fiji,” skipper Elsie Albert said.
Meanwhile, the men’s clash between the Lebanon Cedars and PNG Kumuls to kick off soon at 2:25pm.