Lowly Isou shock Vipers

CELLAR Dwellers PRK Gulf Isou shocked the NCDC Port Moresby Vipers 24-16 in their round 15 Digicel Cup fixture at the National Football Stadium yesterday.
The Gulf franchise defended solidly in the half denying the more fancied Vipers from earning a crucial win to keep them in touch of a finals berth.
In an error-riddled contest, the Gulf men held their nerve after getting out to a lead in the second half and never looked back.
Isou stars Chicko Mairi, Joseph Singura, Benji Kot and Patrick Opo put their bodies on the line against opposition’s big guns in Larsen Marabe, Nelson Wak, Yoks Bagave and Manu Keme.
It was in the 60th minute after long passage of play Isou winger Gabby Taune crossed out wide to narrow the margin by four points 16-12
Nine minutes later second rower Isou Patrick Popo dashed over to equalize 16-16 and hooker Jeffrey Para added the extras to hit the front for the first time 18-16.
Vipers ball security was a problem for them as they could not mount any sustained pressure.
Isou centre and captain John Horope intercepted a pass to run 50 metres to score under the posts and Para made no mistake with the conversion to give his side a rare 24-16 victory.
The Isou trailed 16-8 at halftime but earned praise for their fighting spirit after being written off as wooden spoon favourites.
Vipers first half tries were from winger Rex Tandoa, Benton Leme and captain Nicko Dom while Leme kicked two goals.
Isou coach Collin Geno said his side simply played a little smarter and kept their cool to get the win.
“We had to work a bit harder and smarter and ensure they did all the chasing,” Geno said.
“We wer defence and that was the reason winning the match” Geno said.
“This win has given us some relief and confidence towards the end of the season with three matches remaining” he said.
Vipers coach Joe Sipa said his side a poor second half cost them the game. “We didn’t click in the second half made too many errors,” Sipa said.