Morobe Pride head coach Mark Mexico says his side is fully prepared for the challenge of this Sunday’s 2026 Rigo Rice Cup Grand Final, marking the team's second consecutive appearance in the tournament decider.

Mexico, Kumul No. 249 and a former PNG Hunter, noted that the team capitalized on a two-week break to recover both physically and mentally following a grueling six-to-seven-month campaign. The time away from competition also allowed the players to strengthen their bonds and reconnect as a unit.

He credited the squad’s discipline, commitment, and collective effort for driving the Pride back to the Grand Final, stating that their return to the ultimate match is a direct reflection of their hard work all season.

Reflecting on the campaign, Mexico described their semi-final clash against 5mile Heights as a tight, testing contest that pushed the team's composure to its limits. Moving into the final, he emphasized that the team is strictly focused on maintaining control, minimizing errors under grand final pressure, and responding instantly to setbacks.

The former Kumul stressed that internal trust and thorough preparation will dictate their approach on Sunday. Rather than searching for answers outside, he urged his players to trust the coaching staff, their internal systems, and the high standards they established themselves.

While finalizing the match-day lineup proved difficult, Mexico expressed absolute confidence in his selected squad to deliver a commanding performance. After finishing as runners-up last year, the Pride are determined to go one step further and finish this campaign with the silverware.

Mexico also spoke candidly about the financial hardships the team endured while based in Port Moresby this season, highlighting the strain of rising living costs and the growing expenses of maintaining a team away from home. Despite these hurdles, he expressed deep gratitude to their major sponsor, Lae City Lord Mayor Hon. Jacob Maragau, for his unwavering backing.

Mexico hopes the boys can repay the Mayor's generosity by capturing the 2026 Rigo Rice Cup title this Sunday against Western Highlands rivals, the 3rd City Rangers from Mt. Hagen.

Finally, Mexico rallied the Morobean community living in the nation's capital to turn out in droves. He urged supporters to fill the stands at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium this Sunday, calling on the Morobean family to bring the noise and help the Pride make their second consecutive Grand Final appearance a winning one.