United claim 8-wicket win over defending premiers Hoods

United (180/2) claimed a dominant eight-wicket win over the defending premiers Hoods (179/8) in the ITI Trophy premier men’s match last Saturday.
The Port Moresby Cricket Association competition leaders found themselves up against a determined United outfit with batsman Lega Siaka’s 97 run knock getting his team home in convincing fashion after a shaky start.
Hoods top three in openers Hiri Hiri (42) and Ratu Maha (58) as well as first drop Assad Vala (52) got out to excellent starts and looked likely they could post a 200-plus total.
However, the Hoods middle order failed to capitalise on the trio’s efforts openers efforts as a combination of disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured the Rigo men finished up at a total well below 200.
Willie Gavera was the pick of United bowlers claiming three for 26 while allrounder Mahuru Dai bagged a couple with his off-breaks.
In reply, United had little trouble chasing down the 180-run target with Lega Siaka falling three runs short of a century.
The Hanuabada man was dismissed by Vala while Sese Bau (54) and Mahuru Dai (22) brought United home in 15 overs.