Gurias shut down Eagles in rusty affair at Kalabond

NGIP Agmark Guria started their 2012 Digicel Cup on the right note when they beat Wantok Gaming System Mt Hagen Eagles 20-12 at Kalabond field in Kokopo yesterday.
Their speed men were at their most potent in the early exchanges with centre Jacky Marcus setting up winger Boas Ruru for two tries to take a 10-6 lead after 20 minutes of play.
Mistakes by Eagles in attacking possession gave Gurias all the invitation they needed to make the visitors pay.
And that’s what Guria’s Albert Patak did when he fed lock Pidi Tongap who was in the clear scoring the Tolai’s third try.
Gurias led 16-6 at the halftime siren.
Eagle’s captain Francis Ray barged over the Gurias’ line in the 60th minute to give the visitors their second try which was duly converted by Kumul halfback and former Gurias player Dion Aiye to trail 16-12.
Chris Jerry then wrapped up the result for the East New Britain franchise with a try minutes before full time putting the Gurias eight points clear 20-12.
The game was not of a high standard with both sides exhibiting poor ball control.
The Gurias face a daunting task in the next round as they play a dangerous Enga Mioks in Wabag.
The Engans will be buoyed by the 32-20 beating they dished out to defending premiers Goroka Lahanis and will be out to bag another big name scalp.
The Eagles will host the debuting Chimbu’s TNA Lions in Mt Hagen next round but if their mistake-riddled performance is anything go by it will not be a walk in the park.