Lahanis edge Vipers to end losing streak

 By ZACHERY PER
THE Goroka Lahanis finally ended a nine-game losing streak when they beat the Port Moresby Vipers 16-12 in Goroka yesterday.
The last time the sides met was in the Digicel Cup’s third round, also at the Sir Danny Leahy Rugby League Oval, where the visitors edge the Lahanis 25-24.
Lahanis fullback Francis Takai saved the day for his side when he crossed late in the game to seal the round 14 match.
The Vipers lacked fire-power despite strong performance by former Kumuls Richard Kambo and Charlie Wabo, while the Ragi brothers Quinton and John stood out in the back line.
Vipers were the first to score through centre John (Ragi) and brother Quinton converted to put Vipers in front 6-0.
Lahanis struggled hard  before their efforts paid off, with Urakusie crashing over and Danny Sox added the extras to level the scores 6-6.
Vipers were caught off-side from the kick-off and Takai opted for a quick tap and raced to the line for a try to take the lead but Felix Tatsim’s boot couldn’t cap off the four-pointer and the score remained 10-6 at halftime.
Takai scored his second try minutes into the second term and with Sox’s conversion, the home side were 10 points ahead of the city men (16-6).
Glen Nami’s side scored a consolation try through five-eighth Peter Paulus with Quinton Ragi adding the extras for the final scoreline.
Results: Rd 14 – Sun, July 17: Muruks 26 Gurias 12, Tumbe 16 Lions 14, Lahanis 16 Vipers 8, Tigers 20 Eagles 8, Mioks v Wigmen (match not played).