Hunters game entry issue to be looked at: PNGRFL

Caption Pic: Eager fans squeezing their way into the gates to the Sir John Guise stadium last week.





By MATTHEW VARI



Sunday, August 23, 2015 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)



PNGRFL Chairman, Sandis Tsaka, made comments following queries by the Sunday Chronicle on the way that the entry into Sir John Guise stadium was organized for last week’s SP Hunters home game played in Port Moresby.

When asked about who was responsible for the entry and processing of fans into the stadium, the chairman stated that the security, crowd control were under the responsibility of the National Sports Trust and Sports Foundation.

As evident by the events of last week, the organizers underestimated the movement of fans and the times required to get them all in.

“The management of the facility, gates, security and crowd control is the responsibility of the National Sports Trust and Sports Foundation who own and manage the facilities,” Tsaka said.

“PNGRFL has entered into an agreement with the owners to provide event and game day management of all events.”

With the final home game to be played next week at Sir John Guise, Mr Tsaka was asked if the rugby league governing body would ensure fans would not go through the experience of last week- Tsaka reiterated that it was the first time that the league had worked with the Sport Trust, and that they will work on addressing the issues that arose from the experience.

A good number of women and children were almost crushed in the process of the mad rush that occurred when the game started before all fans could be let in.

“This is the first time we have hosted a game under this partnership and whilst the event was a huge success and most enjoyment there were issues that we identified that needed addressing and we are working with the events managers to ensure these issues are addressed,” Tsaka added.

“As with any new major event and undertaking, there will inevitably be challenges but the PNGRFL and the Sports Trust remain committed to continuously addressing any issues to ensure that all future events are safe, user-friendly and enjoyable for all to enjoy.”