By CHARLIE DUMAVI
JUNIOR Rop, the hard running prop from Jiwaka is counting on the hours to represent Papua New Guinea in tomorrow’s Pacific Championship match against Cook Islands.
MAKING his debut for PNG Hunters in 2019 through Lae Snax Tigers, Rop is ready to lead the PNG Kumuls forwards alongside the likes of Jack De Belin, Epel Kapinias, Dan Russel and Rhyse Martin.
The 29 years old is pleased to finally put on the Kumuls jersey when PNG Kumuls run out at home after four (4) years.
He said he owe it all to his mother who is his number one supporter.
“I would like to thank my mum who had the courage to bring me up this far.
“I have gone through ups and downs but she has been there for me and again thanks to her courage and prayers,” Rop said.
“Thank you also to Stanley Tepend who identified my talent and brought me from Tigers and into PNG Hunters.”
Rop said he is already feeling the weight of the nation over his shoulders to go out there and represent the country to the best of his ability.
He said he is ready to play the game he usually play with the guidance from his Coach Justine Holbrook.
Rop said what the coach want from him is to bring in more energy like in the recent PMs 13 against Australia.
“All he (Holbrook) wants is to bring in the energy like I always do.
“He wants me to run hard, tackle hard, do my job and that’s it.”
He said it will be his first time to play for PNG Kumuls but it has been good being with the team in camp and they are pretty much looking forward to the match.
PNG Kumuls will take on Cook Islands at 3pm in Port Moresby tomorrow at the National Football Stadium.
