Competition leaders the Kandes and the Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers shared the spoils in an entertaining 16-all draw at Ron Albert Oval on Saturday as Round 11 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup came to a close before the competition heads into its scheduled bye round this weekend.

The highly anticipated clash between the first-placed Kandes and fourth-placed Vipers lived up to expectations, with both sides crossing for three tries in a match that remained in the balance until the final whistle.

Kandes looked set to continue their winning form after building momentum through tries from Benaiah Simon in the 12th minute, Ames John in the 20th minute and Mal Hilton four minutes later. Their efficient goal-kicking saw them convert both available opportunities to keep pressure on the visitors.

The Vipers, however, showed why they remain among the competition's top contenders. Manase Watt opened the scoring in the opening minute before Martin Yanda and Gwenemba Gaffie added further tries to keep their side within striking distance.

While the Vipers managed only one successful conversion from three attempts, an early penalty goal from Ben Fege proved crucial in helping secure a share of the points.

Both teams had opportunities to break the deadlock in the closing stages, but strong defensive efforts ensured neither side could find a winning score.

The draw sees the Kandes maintain their position at the top of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup ladder, while the Vipers remain firmly in the top four as the competition enters a brief mid-season break.

With Round 11 now complete, players, officials and supporters will enjoy a well-earned rest as the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup observes its Bye Round on June 27–28.

For one weekend, the competition's hard tackles, spectacular tries and passionate sideline debates will take a pause before returning on July 5 for what promises to be an exciting run toward the finals.

The break provides teams with a valuable opportunity to recover and regroup ahead of the second half of the season, with the race for finals positions becoming increasingly competitive.

When the competition resumes, all eyes will be on ladder leaders Kandes as they look to maintain their advantage at the top, while the Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers will be aiming to build on their strong form and continue their push towards premiership contention.