Dabaris to face Muruks

By PARKER TAMBUA
CENTRAL Dabaris are eyeing their third straight win in the Digicel Cup when they take on ladder leaders Mendi Muruks in round 10 at the Lae Rugby League Ground on Sunday.
Seen as underdogs, the Central government-sponsored visitors have sprung upset wins over Port Moresby Vipers and Hela Wigmen in the last two rounds.
But the Dabaris have a poor away record so far this season.
Try-scoring sensation Douglas Pirika may return for the Dabaris.
Dabaris’ Pirika, Morea Morea Jr, Andrew Solo and Alex Alungi will be dangerous in attack, given their speed and footwork.
The Muruks have so far recorded sevens wins from nine matches to sit atop the 12-team ladder.
The Petroleum Resources Kutubu-sponsored side have a sleek backline in Wesley Batari, Charlie Simon, Clent Lama, Livai Andrew and fullback Dickson Pipi.
Meanwhile, Port Moresby Vipers are desperate to stay in the top-six and their clash with reigning champions Lae Tigers at the Santos National Football Stadium will be interesting.
The Moni Plus-sponsored Vipers are coming off from two straight losses.
On the other hand, the Lae Biscuit Company-sponsored Tigers bagged a 22-10 victory against Enga Mioks last week after three winless rounds.
Another big Port Moresby fixture is the clash between Waghi Tumbe and Hela Wigmen.
Tumbe are two competition points short of sixth-placed Vipers and a win over Wigmen may give them a chance to make the top-six.
Wigmen will be looking to win to remain within range of the frontrunners.
In Kokopo, Rabaul Gurias will host Gulf Isou at the Kalabond Oval tomorrow.