Loss of former international mourned

The 29-year-old died at Port Moresby General Hospital last Thursday morning and his loss has been deeply felt.
OFC President David Chung, who is also the president of the Papua New Guinea Football Association, was saddened to hear of Komu’s passing and says the thoughts of everyone connected to the confederation are with his family and friends.
“It is with deep regret that such a young player with so much potential has passed away in a tragic accident,” Chung says.
“OFC and PNGFA sends its condolences to the family of Adrian and share their grief at this moment.”
Komu hailed from the Giri village in the Bogia district of Madang Province and made several appearances for his country eight years ago during the Oceania qualifiers for the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Long-time team mate and former Madang representative Terence Sisu says the late midfielder had a good footballing brain and was a true leader on the field.
“Adrian was a sharp thinker and vocal footballer and I saw him as one day having the potential to become one of the country’s best coaches,” Sisu says.
Komu began his career at Madang-based club Newtown under the tutelage of reknowned mentor Bob Morris, who played a big role in his rise to the national team.
He became one of Madang’s finest players and helped his province lift the prestigious PNGFA Cup in 2004, winning the player of the tournament award in the process.
Komu was also a pioneering member of the National Soccer League team Madang Fox before moving on to Eastern Stars and briefly appearing for Bulolo United.
He is survived by wife Jill and son Dylan.
For more on Papua New Guinea football go to www.pngfootball.com.pg