POSTS BY AUTHOR
Helen-Jennifer BUBUWAU
MIOKS GRIND OUT EAGLES AT AIPUS OVAL
The NPL Enga Mioks held their nerve to grind out a narrow 12-8 win over the Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles in a bruising Round 13 clash of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2025.
The home team, the Mioks showcased a thrilling spectacle of brute strength and discipline on Sunday, July 13th at Aipus Oval in Wabag in a match dominated by defense and physicality.
The Mioks struck first through second-rower Emmanuel Balio, crashing over the line under 5 minutes to ignite the home crowd. Winger Joel William slotted the conversion two minutes later, giving the Mioks an early 6-0 lead. However, the Eagles responded quickly, with winger Sailas Joshua crossing in the 10th minute, but the missed conversion, which left them trailing.
As both sides wrestled for control, discipline was crucial in the tense clash. Eagles forward Stuard Manda was sent to the sin bin after 20 minutes, leaving the Mioks to take advantage with a penalty goal from William to extend their lead to 8-4.
The second half mirrored the first in its intensity.
Eaglesâ Centre Semion Tamai levelled the scores at 8-all with a try heading into the 50th minutes, but another missed conversion kept the game undecided.
Mioks winger Joshua Philip then broke the deadlock in the 59th minute with the final try that proved to be the match-winner, as both teams tightened up defensively in the final quarter.
Despite the Eagles scoring two tries, their inability to convert proved costly.
The Mioksâ discipline, accurate kicking, and home support played a crucial role in maintaining their lead and sealing the win, boosting their confidence as they chase a finals position.
The Eagles suffer a defeat following their win against the Kroton Hela Wigmen in Round-12. The loss will push the Eagles to pursue a win in round -14 against the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis on Saturday 19th July, 2025.
The Mioks will now look to carry their momentum into the next round, while the Eagles are left to reflect on missed opportunities that could prove pivotal in the race to the playoffs.
Published on July 14, 2025
TIGERS CLAW THROUGH TUMBE IN ROUND 13 SHOWDOWN
Lae Snax Tigers proved too strong for the visiting Asila Waghi Tumbe in Lae League Ground, securing a convincing 22-6 victory in Round 13 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2025 on Sunday, July 13th, 2025.
With a passionate home crowd, the Tigers displayed calm structure across both halves, precisely neutralizing Tumbeâs attacking threats and capitalizing on crucial opportunities. With relentless forward pressure, Tigers controlled the momentum of the match from the outset.
The opening first half showcased intent, as Tigers Centre Kevin Yako powered over the try line into the 10th minute while Hooker, David Joseph locked in the 2-points conversion giving Tigers an early edge.
Despite this, the Tumbeâs struck back with Second-rower Cedrick Kuli in the 24th minute followed by a successful conversion from halfback Charlie Simon to level the scores, 6-6, Tigers Joseph once again capitalized on a penalty conversion, regaining the lead before half time, 8-6.
Meanwhile, Tumbeâs interchange Solomon Karis was sin-binned in the 35th minute, adding further pressure on the visitors.
The Tigers remained focused and capitalized early in the second half with tries to winger Mothy Yura and Five-eight Joel Gena within the 50-60th minute, Josephâs kicking effort was flawless adding another penalty goal before fulltime to cap off a commanding performance.
While Tumbe showed early resistance, their discipline faltered when it mattered most resulting in their loss. After coming off a draw against the NPL Enga Mioks in Round-10, their failure to secure a win will tally to three consecutive losses.
Furthermore, Tigerâs defensive line remained rock-solid with controlled aggression and tactical edge, forcing errors and shutting down any try attempt-plays from the visitors cementing their win. The Tigers reaffirmed their position in second place on the points ladder with the finals in sight.
The Tigers regained a win after a loss in round-12 against the ENB Agmark Gurias. With momentum on their side, the Tigers will aim to carry this form into round 14 against the WNBP Kimbe Cutters on Saturday July 19th, 2025.
Published on July 14, 2025
HELA WIGMEN OUTMATCH CENTRAL DABARIS
The Kroton Hela Wigmen outmatched the Gas Resource Central Dabaris in a nail biting Round -13 match of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup this afternoon.
Wigmen dug deep to defeat a spirited Dabaris side in a tightly contested match securing an 18-10 victory at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city.
The match commenced with high intensity as Dabaris struck early through Douglas Pirika in the shocking 3rd minute.
However, Wigmen Siki Konden answered back with resilience and flair, over the line in the 10th minute, followed by fullback Kaupa Sipa with another strong finish in the 24th, giving the home side 8-4 lead heading into halftime.
Dabaris kept the fight alive after half time as Uda Morea crashed over in for a try after 2- minutes into the second half with Nathan Kora successfully converting to level the scores. But the Wigmenâs physical dominance began to take its toll in the second half.
Wigmenâs Mesno Laki reasserted control crossing over for a try in the 46th minute, while Bossy Alua sealed the result with a crucial four-pointer in the 67th minute. Lote Kuman managed a single conversion from four attempts, while Dabaris converted one from two.
Despite Wigmenâs low conversion rate, structured defense and relentless kicking game proved vital in containing a Dabaris outfit hungry for an upset.
The win lifts Hela Wigmen out from losses as they push for a top six finish, while Central Dabaris will need to regroup quickly if they hope to stay in as a top tier team.
With finals looming, every point matters, and this result solidifies Hela Wigmenâs reputation as they look ahead to face the Asila Waghi Tumbe next.
Published on July 13, 2025
JIWAKA POLICE INVESTIGATES TWO SEPERATE DEATHS IN ESTATE
Jiwaka police reported two deaths at the same location on Thursday, July 10th at the WRC Estate in Kedeng, Banz.
Jiwaka Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Laimo Asi confirmed the death-report at the same location at WRC Estate Kedeng, Banz.
Police identified the first man as 30-year-old Jacob Pet from the Kuta Kopi Tribe of Central Hagen and the other man was Agiru Koroba aged between 65 and 70 from Koroba in Hela Province, who had died as a result of a fight that occurred at different locations within the estate.
Moreover, PPC Asi emphasized that Mr. Pet was found dead by his relatives lying in front of the estate gate. He mentioned that police had spoken to his relatives to cooperate with the police and not take the law into their own hands as police are working tirelessly to determine the cause of his death.
Asi added that the elderly Mr. Koroba was sleeping in his house when Hela residents who reside in the settlement near the estate, allegedly burned down more than 20 houses, including Mr. Korobaâs home with him in it.
"The situation was very tense, but a quick response from the police brought the situation under control. One of the main suspects from Hela, who is now admitted to the hospital, is under close supervision from the police.â
âThose who lost their houses were advised not to take the law into their own hands but to assist the police with information on how it happened that led to the death of the old man and the burning of the houses," PPC Asi said.
Speaking at the Scene of the crimes, PPC Asi urged the communities not to interfere with police investigations and to allow police to carry out their duty. He pointed out that police are yet to get reports from other parties of the province regarding incidents that happened during Wednesday night until Thursday morning.
The situation is under control but still tense. The police are monitoring the area.
Published on July 13, 2025
RPNGC TO HOST FIRST EVER MUSICAL BAND TATTOO COMPETITION
The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will host a Police-Band parade and first ever musical band Tattoo competition in honor of the nationâs 50th Independence Anniversary, the event to take place on Tuesday July 22nd in Port Moresby city.
This band tattoo and parade will feature Police bands of nine countries from around the Pacific to perform at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.
The occasion will be a cultural event that brings people from around the Pacific together, featuring Police Bands from Fiji, Australia, Solomon Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Kiribati, Samoa, Tonga and Tuvalu, as well as the PNG Correctional Services Band.
The Tattoo will follow the Pacific Policing Forum in Port Moresby that will bring together Police Commissioners from around the region working on confronting domestic and regional security threats.
The RPNGC will stage an opening Day Parade at Ela Beach on Sunday 20th July 2025, to commemorate the start of this main event, presenting members of the Special Services Division, the Police Dog Unit and Water Police performing drills and demonstration exercises.
Strong police action remains significant for everyone in our communities to eliminate criminal activities, while the Police Band Tattoo provides an opportunity to take a moment to celebrate tradition and music with the public.
Culture and togetherness are important in the Pacific, not matter what job or position a person holds, so the Tattoo is a fitting conclusion to our forum in July.
This Tattoo is a proud first for the Pacific and one that will showcase not only regional identity and talent, but also the strength of policing relationships at a time at its most crucial importance.
This year is significant for Papua New Guinea as it will soon celebrate 50 years of independence.
The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary has extended its invitation to all residents of NCD to attend the opening day parade at the Ela Beach on Sunday 20th July, 2025.
Published on July 13, 2025
COMMISSIONER MANNING PUSHES FOR STANDARD FITNESS LEVEL IN RPNGC
The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will commence a fitness test as per directive from Commissioner of Police David Manning to maintain an expected fitness level and uphold Police standard.
Commissioner Manning stressed this directive this week during training with KUMUL23 personnel and completing the Pacific Police Commissionerâs Fitness Challenge, delivered Tonganâs Commissioner of Police Geoff Turner.
âPolice work is physically and mentally demanding. We must be on the top of our game.â
âOur new recruits must meet fitness requirements when they apply to join the force, and it is important that we ensure standards are maintained across the ranks. The public expect their police to be fit for duty and that is my expectation of our men and women in uniform.â
âWitnessing our recent graduation of more than 200 probationary police constables, I was proud to see the highest physical standards."
"These young constables are professional and remind us of the importance of physical discipline."
âThe best members we have on the force are those who are committed to serving our people and protecting lives and property, and this is the RPNGC that we are developing,â Commissioner Manning said.
Commissioner Manning expressed the decision to improve his personal fitness and is leading by example.
âWe all put on a few kilos as we get older but that is something we can manage through discipline, exercise and sensible choices. A disciplined approach to physical fitness benefits our members professionally and personally.â
âNew standards for physical fitness will be introduced that will set levels required for our police to meet.â
âPersonnel that are part of the KUMUL23 Police Tactical Group must attain a peak standard of physical fitness and mental agility."
"KUMUL23 sets a high level and this is a very good example for other police around the Nation to aspire to in their jobs.â
During the end of the KUMUL23 training near Port Moresby, Commissioner Manning accepted the fitness challenge from Tonga and has now passed it on to the Vanuatu Police Commissioner.
Published on July 12, 2025
POLICE REPORT TWO DEAD IN SAME LOCATION IN JIWAKA
Jiwaka police reported two deaths at the same location on Thursday, July 10 at WRC Estate in Kedeng, Banz.
Jiwaka Police uncovered the death of two man at the WRC Estate in Kedeng, Banz, on Thursday July 10th, 1015.
Jiwaka Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Laimo Asi confirmed the death-report at the same location.
PPC Asi identified 30-year-old Jacob Pet man from the Kuta Kopi Tribe of Central Hagen and Agiru Koroba aged between 65 and 70 from Koroba in Hela Province had died as a result of a fight that occurred at different locations within the estate.
Moreover, PPC Asi said Mr. Pet was found dead lying in front of the estate gate.
He mentioned that police had spoken to his relatives to cooperate with the police and not take the law into their own hands as police are working tirelessly to determine the cause of his death.
Meanwhile, Asi added that the elderly Mr. Koroba was sleeping in his house when Hela residents who reside in the settlement near the estate, burned down more than 20 houses, including Mr. Korobaâs home with him in it.
"The situation was very tense, but a quick response from the police has brought the situation under control."
"One of the main suspects from Hela, who is now admitted to the hospital, is under close supervision from the police.â
âThose who lost their houses were advised not to take the law into their own hands but to assist the police with information on how it happened that led to the death of the old man and the burning of the houses," PPC Asi said.
Speaking at the Scene of the crimes, PPC Asi urged the communities not to interfere with police investigations and to allow police to carry out their duty.
He pointed out that police are yet to recover reports from other parties of the province regarding incidents that happened during Wednesday night until Thursday morning.
The situation is under control but still tense.
The police are monitoring the area.
Published on July 12, 2025
SP PNG HUNTERS VICTORIOUS OVER BLACKHAWKS DESPITE SLOW START
The SP PNG Hunters produced a commanding second-half performance to defeat the Townsville Blackhawks 34-16 at Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby.
The Hunters displayed resilience through their odds, commanding a win through after a 20-minutes drought in Round 16 of the 2025 Hostplus Cup on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
Trailing 12-16 midway through the first half, the Hunters bounced back with pure determination.
Building on their 16-12 halftime lead, the hosts kept the pressure on after the break, adding another 18 points while keeping the Blackhawks to just one additional try.
Playmaker Sanny Wabo emerged as the match-winner, sealing the victory with two sensational second half tries after the 60th minutes.
Setting the tempo, Juda Rimbu opened the score board with the first try followed by Khaiya Waiembi, Douglas David, and Gairo Voro, showcasing the Huntersâ depth in attack.
Meanwhile, Finley Glare and Joshua Lau shared conversion duties, landing five successful kicks between them.
Despite an early brace from Blackhawks winger Dudley Dotoi and another by Tyrone Gunn-James, the visitors struggled to match the Huntersâ pace and physicality in the final 40 minutes.
With this emphatic win, the SP PNG Hunters continue to strengthen their push up the Hostplus Cup ladder, fuelled by home-ground energy and outstanding individual brilliance.
Published on July 7, 2025
KIMBE CUTTERS OUTPACE GULF ISOU WITH STRONG 30-18 WIN| R12
The WNB Kimbe Cutters outperformed PRK Gulf Isou with a strong 30-18 victory in Round 12 of the 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup at the National Football Stadium, Port Moresby on Saturday 5th, 2025.
Despite a spirited effort from the home side, Gulf Isou could not contain the pace and power of a determined Cutters suit.
The Cutters set the tone early, with Tom Jones crashing over after 13minutes, followed by Norman Bulda in the 30th.
Dickson Morrison proved unstoppable with a double in the 45th and 69th minutes, while Michael Tilioâs try in the 61st sealed the Cuttersâ dominance with five tries in total.
Although the Isou showed resilience by answering back with three well-worked tries, two in first half by Martin Paisoi and Kenny Laho, including the third by Fabian Kari in the second half.
Isouâs Playmaker Felix Beki was flawless with the boot, converting all three tries.
However, the real difference came through the boot of Cutterâs Gend Punde, who slotted four conversions and added a penalty goal in the 57th minute, accumulating a personal haul of 11 points and widening the gap at critical moments.
Although the Cutters have accumulated losses in the season, the Cutters proved to be a serious contender, showing discipline and finishing ability under pressure.
The Gulf Isou, while competitive, will need to regroup and sharpen their defense as they look forward to facing the Moni Plus NCDC Vipers in Round-13 IN Port Moresby, Santos National Football Stadium.
The clash offered fans thrilling moments, but it was Cutterâs consistency and composure that sealed the deal.
The Cutter will maintain their momentum as they prepare to face the ENB Agmark Gurias in Humphreys Oval, Kimbe, WNBP.
Published on July 6, 2025
GURIAS RULE-OUT TIGERS IN COMMANDING ROUND 12 VICTORY
The ENB Agmark Gurias exploded with a dominant 32-10 victory over the Lae Snax Tigers in Round 12 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup at Queen Elizabeth Park on Saturday July 5th, 2025, sending a strong statement to upcoming competitors.
It was a clinical performance from the home side, who outclassed the Tigers in every division, running in six tries over two in front of a passionate Rabaul crowd, at the Queen Elizabeth Park, ENB.
Despite Laeâs Jaran Pitten opening the scoreboard after the first 10minutes, the Gurias sparked into life midway through the first half after as Myles Banam responded after 20 minutes, followed quickly by a double from the electric Derrick Voku (25, 43 minutes), setting the tone for the Guriasâ dominance.
Meanwhile, further tries were carried out by Guriaâs Steven Bruno, Gregan Foremat, and Chris Benjamin sealed the result.
Joshua Mire was solid with the boot, landing four conversions from six attempts, keeping the scoreboard pressure on.
The Tigers struggled to match the Guriasâ intensity and structure, with only Kevin Yako adding a late try and Mark Alunga converting once, trailing 10-32.
Both sides had yellow cards in the second half with Gurias Mek Karap and Tigerâs Emmanuel Alfred sin-binned following a brief on-field scuffle.
This convincing win lifts the Guriasâ momentum as they charge into the business end of the season, while the Tigers will need to regroup quickly if they hope to remain in the finals race.
The Tigers will look to regroup and prepare for round 13 against the Asila Waghi Tumbe in Lae League Grounds on Sunday 13th July 2025.
Meanwhile, the Gurias will focus on facing another round-12 champion, the WNBP Kimbe Cutters in Humphrey Oval, Kimbe WNBP, on Saturday 12th July 2025.
Published on July 6, 2025
VIPERS TOO STRONG FOR DABARIS | DIGICEL EXXONMOBIL CUP R12
The Moni Plus NCDC Pom Vipers delivered a commanding performance, overpowering the Gas Resource Central Dabaris with a dominant 26-4 victory.
After suffering a defeat last week against the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis 18-4, the Vipers took the win in Round 12 of the 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Saturday.
From the opening whistle, the Vipers controlled field with tempo, using their pace and execution to break the Dabarisâ defensive line repeatedly.
Vipers' debutant Joseph Kora opened the 20minunte drought in the 23rd minute, before speedster Slyder Bulu crossed in the 34th.
Both tries were successfully converted by Ben Fege, giving the Vipers early supremacy.
Despite some resistance from the Dabaris, the Vipers proved too sharp in the second half.
Tries from Benjamin Tonny, another from Bulu, and Gilmo Paul who sealed the result, while Fege added a third conversion to bring his tally to three from five conversion attempts.
The Dabaris, who showed flashes of grit, found their only points in the 50th minute when Peter Bongro forced his way over for a try.
However, the missed conversion and lack of follow-through left them struggling to close the gap.
With the win, the Pom Vipers continue their charge up the ladder with seven wins, 4 losses and 1 draw.
The Vipers outfit appearance to be serious contenders as the professional is close to its thrilling rounds before finals.
Vipers will face the Gulf Isou in Round-13 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup.
Furthermore, the Dabaris defeat will add to the tally of eight losses, two draws and two wins.
The loss highlights a need for stronger unity and discipline in key moments, especially when playing against prepared top-tier teams in the competition.
Published on July 6, 2025
MURUKS EDGE OUT MIOKS IN TRY-FEST OF DIGICEL EXONMOBIL R12
The PRK Mendi Muruks emerged victorious in a high-scoring showdown against the NPL Enga Mioks, sealing a narrow 26-22 win at John Ambane Oval, Jiwaka Province on Saturday 5th July 2025.
Muruks took a 4-points difference victory over the Mioks in an intense try-for-try round-12 match of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup.
The Muruks drew first blood and maintained offensive momentum with a total of six tries, two in the first half through Yves David and Jade Puk.
While four tries were carried out in the second half by Finley Peter, Victor Ario, Levai Andrew, and Cedric Maima, each adding to the scoreboard, showcasing the Muruksâ depth and determination across the park.
The Mioks were relentless and refused to back down with four tries.
Fabian Siange opened their account after 15minutes responding to first Muruks Try, followed by Gorden Willie.
The second half saw powerful finishes from Joel William (65â) and a last-minute try by John Wamdi before fulltime to keep the contest alive.
Miokâs Joel William was instrumental, not only scoring but also adding two conversions, while Melix Winis added another from his boot.
However, Murukâs conversion tally proved costly, with only one successful kick from six attempts, a lone effort by Kumul Kaupa.
Despite this, their ability to find the try line repeatedly secured the win.
While the Mioks fought valiantly and nearly staged a comeback, the Muruksâ relentless attacking edge gave them the edge in this entertaining encounter, keeping their finals hopes alive in the 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup competition.
Mendi Muruks now set their eyes on Round13 against the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis at the Lae League Ground while the Mioks are set to face the Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles at Aipus Oval- PNG.
Published on July 6, 2025