Balop’s field goal gives Souths 19-18 win

FIVE-eighth Nicky Balop’s field goal in the 76th minute saved Petroleum Resources Kutubu Souths in  a 19-18 victory over Hekari Tarangau in round 16 of the Port Moresby rugby league competition.
Souths  started  off well in the first half with tries to winger Erick Yawas, outside centre Lucas Mark and Joannie Boi Toank while dummy half William Mone converted two.
Tarangau replied with a try to hooker Steven Poivare before the break.
After some pep talk, they ran into the field with all guns blazing and were the first to score through lock forward Tom Gele.  Half-back Mackenzie Buka raised the flags to trail 16-12.
Mone raised the flags again and Souths extended their lead to 18-12.
However, Tarangau were not to be outdone and hit back when Brian Apo scored in the 68th minute to narrow the gap to two points (18-16). Buka converted to level the scores 18-18.
However, Souths had the last laugh when Balop nailed a field  goal.
In the other games, Kone Tigers beat Butterflies 6-4, Royals  beat Magani 18-16 and  Defence  defeated  Dobo Warriors 22-10.