Kandes Rugby League Club will make a historic first appearance at Santos National Football Stadium this Saturday when they take on ladder leaders PRK Mendi Muruks in the headline match of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup's Amazing Round.
The clash marks another milestone in Kandes' remarkable inaugural season, with the competition newcomers emerging as genuine premiership contenders after a rapid rise up the ladder.
After finishing third following Round 1, Kandes slipped to eighth after Round 2 before steadily climbing through the rankings. The side moved to seventh in Round 3, sixth in Round 4, fourth in Round 5 and third in Round 6 before claiming top spot after Round 7. Although they currently sit second behind the Muruks following Round 8, their impressive form has established them as one of the competition's most exciting teams.
While Kandes have enjoyed a meteoric rise, the Muruks have built their campaign on consistency. After opening the season in seventh place, the Mendi-based outfit climbed to fourth in Round 2, fifth in Round 3 and third in both Rounds 4 and 5. Their steady performances earned them first place after Round 6, and despite briefly dropping to third following Round 7, they reclaimed top spot after Round 8.
Kandes Head Coach Stanley Tepend said the club was excited to make its debut at the country's premier rugby league venue.
"It's exciting for the club to make its first appearance at Santos National Football Stadium this season," Tepend said.
"The players have worked hard to earn their place near the top of the ladder, and we're looking forward to the challenge against a quality Muruks side. It should be a great contest."
Leading the Kandes charge will be captain Charlie Simon and emerging star Ames John.
Simon has been instrumental in the club's success, guiding the team with experience and composure from the halves. His game management, leadership and reliable goal-kicking have played a major role in Kandes' rise this season.
John has also been one of the competition's standout performers. The energetic edge back-rower has impressed with his work rate, ability to break tackles and knack for finding the try line. Despite his youth, he has become an influential figure within the squad and a consistent performer throughout the campaign.
Muruks Head Coach Roderick Puname said his side respected the challenge posed by the competition's newest club.
"We've got a lot of respect for what the Kandes have achieved in the first half of the competition in their debut year," Puname said.
"They've shown they can compete with the best teams in the competition and their position on the ladder reflects that. We're pleased with our own progress so far, but every round presents a new challenge."
"The players are looking forward to the opportunity to test themselves against another top side in what should be a great match for the fans."
The Muruks will again look to influential forward Limbi Henry to provide impact through the middle of the field. Henry has been one of the competition's most dangerous forwards this season and currently leads the club's try-scoring tally with six tries from five appearances.
Muruks captain Mark Tony has also played a pivotal role in the team's success. Widely known as "Captain Courageous", the veteran halfback has led from the front with his defensive toughness, game management and accurate goal-kicking.
With first place on the line, several of the competition's biggest stars in action and Kandes preparing for their long-awaited Port Moresby debut, Saturday's Amazing Round blockbuster is shaping as one of the most anticipated matches of the 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.
