Kairuku-Hiri league comp concludes last round of games

AIPEANA Rugby League in Central’s Kairuku-Hiri completed its final round of regular matches over the weekend with outsiders Milo Titans recording a 12-8 upset win over ladder leaders Wasa Cowboys.
The main match at Bereina Station saw a tight first half with Titans centre Joseph Kea Iaua scoring a try to put his side in front before teammate Ainau Cornelius bagged another four-pointer for an 8-0 lead.
The Cowboys responded with Aiai Vageke and Henry Eliko scoring two unconverted tries to level the match 8-8 at halftime.
A quiet second half saw both sides squander scoring opportunities at crucial stages of the match with neither side able to break the deadlock.
But Cornelius delivered the winning try in the dying minutes after he intercepted a pass from Cowboys centre Vicky Ani to run 90m to score and seal the win.
Titans coach Aufa Kavana said it was an inspiring performance to get one last win before bowing out for the season.
“I’m really happy about how everyone came together to execute the game plan,” he said.
“Second-rower Piauka Alano laid the foundation to help our backline apply more pressure on the Cowboys.
“It’s his performance that put the opposition under pressure, causing them to lose possession.
“That was where we managed to capitalise before scoring the winner.”