Gordon helps Mendi league select side claim 18-12 win over Lagatois

By PARKER TAMBUA
WINGER Sarut Gordon scored in the final minute to help Mendi Rugby League’s select side claim an 18-12 win over the visiting Motu Koita Rugby League’s Lagatois on Sunday.
The match was played as a curtain-raiser to the inaugural Hope Cup clash between the Port Moresby Vipers and the Mendi Muruks at the Joe Keviame Oval.
The Lagatois showed no fear despite playing against a physical Mendi outfit and the home side were the first to score three minutes in through their right winger Gara Disas. A successful Tapius Solu conversion saw Mendi take a 6-0 lead.
The visitors responded 12 minutes later with fullback Haris Hereva and Maikai Doura combining to set up centre Miria Sepo for a converted try.
In the second half, Mendi League forward Dickson Alimbu scored to give his side a 12-6 lead.
The spirited Lagatois again scored an equaliser through lock Tom Willie before Gordon scored the winner. It was a game which saw two teams with contrasting styles of play. Mendi’s physicality troubled the Lagatois in the battle up the middle but the visitors matched it with scrambling defence.
In contrast, the Lagatois used their trademark of free-flowing game which at times didn’t worked out as they went sideways on some occasions and ended up running out of room on the edges.
However, the visitors had some standout players like forward Rolai Luma who relished the physical battle against the home side.
“I know our friends from the Highlands are known for their physicality but for me I see myself as one of them too,” Luma said.
“Our forwards weren’t intimidated. We took them on until the end and we are satisfied we our performance despite the loss.
“It is a great experience and an excellent learning curve for us.”