Digicel ExxonMobil Cup competition leaders, the Kandes, strengthened their grip on the top spot with a hard-fought 22-14 victory over PRK Mendi Muruks at the National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby over the weekend.
In a clash between two of the competition’s top contenders, Kandes crossed for four tries to three and converted three of their four attempts to secure an important win that keeps them at the summit of the ladder after nine rounds.
Kandes opened the scoring in the 17th minute when second-rower Ames John crashed over for the first try of the afternoon.
Halfback Charlie Simon added the extras to give his side an early advantage.
The competition leaders extended their lead just before halftime through centre Jayden Nuampo, who crossed in the 38th minute.
Five-eighth Gwenemba Gaffie converted to send Kandes into the break with momentum firmly on their side.
Kandes continued their strong start to the second half when hooker Stenza Tandoa touched down in the 53rd minute.
Gaffie again made no mistake with the conversion as the they built a commanding lead.
The Muruks refused to surrender and hit back through centre Levai Andrew in the 58th minute.
Winger Finley Peter then crossed six minutes later to bring the visitors back into contention.
With the match still in the balance, Andrew grabbed his second try of the game in the 78th minute to give Muruks hope of a late comeback.
Halfback Francis Sam converted, reducing the deficit to eight points.
However, Kandes sealed the result in dramatic fashion when second-rower Joseph Martin scored in the dying stages of the match in the 84th minute, ensuring the ladder leaders walked away with the two competition points.
Kandes finished with four tries from Ames John, Jayden Nuampo, Stenza Tandoa and Joseph Martin, while the Muruks replied through Levai Andrew (2) and Finley Peter.
The victory sees the Kandes remain on top of the ladder with 14 competition points from nine matches, having recorded six wins, two draws and only one defeat this season.
They have scored 192 points while conceding 150 for a points differential of +42.
Despite the loss, PRK Mendi Muruks remain firmly in the premiership race in third place on 12 points, level with second-placed Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers but behind on points differential.
Top Five Ladder Standings After Round 9
- Kandes – 14 points (6 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss)
- Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers – 12 points
- PRK Mendi Muruks – 12 points
- Kroton Hela Wigmen – 11 points
- ENB Agmark Gurias – 11 points
With the season approaching its halfway stage, the Kandes continue to set the pace while the Muruks remain well placed among the competition’s leading contenders despite Sunday’s defeat.
