Gurias move to top with Muruks

By MICHAEL PHILIP
RABAUL Gurias moved level on 22 points with Mendi Muruks following the hosts’ 28-20 top-of-the-table win in round 14 of the Digicel Cup at the Kalabond Oval, Kokopo, East New Britain, on Saturday.
Both teams were strong in the first half, scoring just one try apiece through Gurias centre John Ragi Jr and Muruks winger Bob Tenza.
But Gurias took a 6-4 lead into halftime with successful conversion from halfback Ase Boas.
After the break, the Agmark-sponsored home side capitalised on a Muruks mistake which saw bench prop Baddy Jack crossing over for a converted try to lead 12-4.
The visitors put themselves back into the contest when second-rower Ishmael Waine crashed over for their second try which was converted by Clent Lama, to trail 10-12.
Poor ball security by the visitors saw the Gurias score back-to-back tries through centre and vice-captain Joe Frank with only one successful conversion to extend their lead to 22-10.
Poor defence by the Muruks again saw Gurias flyer Dominic Anis Jr sprint away for another converted try to lead 28-10.
As the clock ticked down, the Muruks registered two back-to-back tries through utility Justin Yoka and prop Julius Yakopa with only one successful conversion.
Muruks coach Roderick Puname said despite the loss, he was happy their performance and aimed to improve in their next match against Hela Wigmen in Port Moresby.
“Congratulations to the Gurias, they had a very good game plan,” he said.
“They capitalised on our errors to score tries.
“We’ll go back and work on our weaknesses and come back stronger.”
Meanwhile, Gurias coach Francis Ray congratulated his players on their win.
“We’re taking it one game at a time with discipline crucial among everyone in the squad,” he said.