Mioks will meet Muruks in Wabag

By KEVIN TEME
FOR the first time, Toyota Enga Mioks will host Structural Bridging System Mendi Muruks at the Johnson Siki Oval in Wabag after Enga Governor Peter Ipatas, who is also the patron, committed K50,000 to the PNG National Rugby League board last Friday.
Muruks play Mioks in another do-or-die clash.
Last Sunday, Muruks sent Stop N Shop Port Moresby Vipers packing with a 34-12 win at the Lae Rugby League ground.
The payment to the PNG NRL is a guarantee that the Mioks, as hosts, will recoup the money through gate takings.
PNG NRL general manager Hurbert Warupi thanked Ipatas for the payment.
“It is a big boost for the Mioks. It will give confidence to their supporters to come and watch the game.
“The hosting of the preliminary finals will also promote the concept of bringing the finals of the semi-professional competition to the rural areas.”
Warupi denied rumors of a change in the finals venue, saying the board had resolved that the team finishing with the highest ranking hosts the knockouts.
“In this case, Mioks finished third after the normal rounds ahead of Muruks (fourth) and, therefore Mioks should be given the right to host the game in Wabag,” Warupi said.
He added the winners of this match will meet the Agmark Rabaul Gurias in Port Moresby.
PNG NRL interim chairman Sudhir Guru said it was good for Enga to show hospitality and the support of the game on Sunday.
“I am sure they will display true sportsmanship,” Guru said.
Governor Ipatas said Enga was a safe place to host the finals. 
“I have been a follower of league for the past 15 years and hosting the game in Wabag will also be a window of opportunity for the provincial government to seek avenues to improve the venue in the future,” Ipatas said.