Mioks whip Tigers as fans riot

 By PHILIP KEPSON

THREE vehicles were torched and at least four supporters were hospitalised as Enga Mioks thrashed competition leaders Lae Tigers 30-6 at Aipus oval in Wabag yesterday.

Despite the violence which took place outside the field among fans, Mioks’ Tiger Emere and Pasu Awani put on outstanding performances.

Mioks  lead 10-6 at half time before dominating the second half with halves Roger Laka and Charlie Simon directing the home team to add five unanswered tries.

A fight erupted among fans with less than three minutes to go forcing the match to be called off. Tigers vehicles including a bus and two land cruisers were set on fire during the violence. Onlookers said the vehicles were torched after the game allegedly by relatives of a man who was beaten by Tigers’ supporters.

According to Wabag Rugby league chairman Joseph Kibi and PNGRFL official Gabriel Kiluwa the violence had nothing to do with the players.

They said the game was forced to end prematurely as fans became rowdy and started throwing various projectiles at each other and onto the field.

Kiluwa said Tigers fans, mostly from the eastern end of the field, did not listen to his appeal to calm down,.

“No player or official including the referees got hurt…The Tigers supporters did not want to listen to us despite our appeals. I will make a report on what unfolded this afternoon,” Kiluwa said.

According to unconfirmed reports, four men were allegedly taken to hospital after they were either sliced by bush knives or hit by flying missiles outside the field.

Provincial Police Commander Philip Welia who had a hectic afternoon dispersing the disgruntled supporters could not give any details when contacted.