Mikave scores double to help Eagles beat Gulf Isou

MANU Mikave scored two tries to help the Mt Hagen Eagles beat Gulf Isou 16-12 in a tight contest at the National Football Stadium yesterday.
The Eagles’ aggression in defence denied Isou from scoring any points late in the match.
The visitors played smart and moved together as a unit in defence, helping pave the way to seal the win.
Isou only had themselves to blame with centre Smith Siviri fumbling possession twice near the opposition tryline. Poor execution also let the side down as they were unable to distribute the ball well in attack.
The Eagles got off to a good start with tries to Elijah Peter and Manu Mikave. Mosley Tika converted one goal.
In the dying stages of the opening half, Isou scored through Jason Maima and Younny Patrick successfully converted to bring narrow the gap on the Eagles.
Leading 10-6 at the break, the Eagles came out firing and were rewarded with another try to Manu. Mosley added the extras for the Eagles to lead 16-6.
With the game in the balance, Isou budged their way over the Eagles’ tryline through hooker Malon Palani to trail 16-12.
After Palani’s effort, the Eagles tightened their defence and held on for the win.
Isou coach Norris Selu was disappointed with loss.
Meanwhile, the PNGNRL earlier announce the expansion of the Digicel Cup competition in 2019.
Three new teams have been admitted while Chimbu Warriors has been dropped from the competition.