Defensive efforts of Vipers teams impresses coach

THE Port Moresby Vipers sides beat Gulf Isou sides in trial matches at Sir John Guise Stadium on Sunday.
Vipers Team One shut out Isou Team One 18-0 and Vipers Team Two crushed Isou Team Two 26-0.
Vipers coach Leonard Tarum told The National after the trials that he was pleased with the performance of his squad and that their pre-season training and preparation had been good.
He said the players were confident of another strong showing in the 2021 Digicel Cup season which is scheduled to kick off next month.
“We finalised our 26-man squad before the trials,” Tarum said.
“Our aim in the games against Gulf Isou was to see where we were and how we could put our combinations together ahead of the season kick-off.
“I am really satisfied with how they played, both teams.
“Team One were made up of all the senior players, the regulars from last season.
“Team Two were made up of all our rookies who were solid in their win.
“I was very impressed, especially with their defensive efforts.
“Both of our teams kept Isou scoreless and defended strongly, not allowing the opposition to break through despite consecutive sets in attack.”
Tarum said they would definitely be banking on strong defence throughout the upcoming season and the teams efforts were promising signs.
Tarum said there were still some areas that the Vipers needed to improve on, including ball security.
“Our completion rates were poor,” he said.
“I understand that they were only trials, but I want to see a big improvement in that area.”