Maopa Kala claim title

MAOPA Kala defied all the odds to win the grand final of the Aroma Coast rugby league tournament over the Christmas and New Year break.
In a nailbiting showdown, Maopa Kala edged out Kirap Na Go 6-0 to take the title.
Though the two teams are new to the tournament, they comprised of seasoned campaigners.
Maopa Kala under the guidance of coach Gairo Enara, had Vali Kapa, Solomon Kapa, Kari Gairo and Valu Roa in the frontline while Kala Evele, Geno Rup, Pau Kalei and Togo Hura in the backs made sure they won the match.
Kirap Na Go coached by former Port Moresby Vipers and Brothers centre Collin Geno had experienced and old hands in Geno Ralani, Pate Kapa, Galama Mulaga and Ilo Ava working tirelessly but could not score any points.
Tournament director Chris Enara said although the two teams were new, it was experience that was a telling factor from both sides.
The Cup final started in a blistering pace and solid defence with players putting their bodies on line.
But, it was Maopa Kala who broke the opponents’ defensive line to score through Solomon Kapa.
Kapa’s four-pointer came after half back Evele slotted in two points before half time break. 
In the second half, Pate Kapa tried tirelessly for his team, pulling out every trick in the book.
He led his chargers and continued to test the Maopa Kala tryline but their opponents’ solid defence denied them any chances of crossing over which saw Maopa Kala taking out the title with narrow 6-0 win.
They also walked away with the Cup and K2,800 in prize money while runners-up Kirap Na Go settled for K1,400.
In the playoff for the Plate, Paramana, under coach Robert Volu, made a comeback after a three-years absence to claim the 13-8 and K1,700 and Eo Vavine bagged the K900.
In the playoff for the Bowl, it was all Kapi Upuna who proved too strong for the City-based Lagoon Brothers beating them 6-4 of K1,100 where the runners-up settled for K600.
Enara said the tournament was a huge success with teams playing in the true spirit of sportsmanship.
He said they were supported by their fans and supporters.