Palabok scores hat-trick, sends Rusa into final of Kiunga RL

By ERIC PIET
HOOKER Benson Palabok’s hat-trick of tries helped Rusa beat Waliya 24-8 in Kiunga Rugby League semifinal in Kiunga, Western, on Sunday.
Rusa coach Sheff Yoang’s men, who are the minor premiers and defending champions, play the Storm on Sunday.
The Storm booked their grand final spot two weeks ago and had to wait after a delay to the other semifinal.
Rusa president Hosea Nimmy said the first half saw the Rusa men opening the scores with Palabok scoring under the cross bar from an intercept.
Five-eighth Wilfred Waragiye had no propblem with the conversion for a 6-0 lead.
Palabok struck again pinching wayward Waliya passes to cross for two more tries.
Rusa’s fourth four-pointer was logged in by back-rower Amstrong Dendi.
Waragiye kicked two conversions and a penalty.
Waliya competed strongly but could not capitalise on their opportunities as well as the defending champions.
Waliya winger Milla Uladu crossed twice for his side.
Rusa held an imposing 22-8 lead at halftime and kept the opposition scoreless while adding a Waragiye penalty in the second stanza.
The second half turned into a battle of attrition as both sides were content with keeping play mostly in the middle third.
Rusa’ Charmers Nimmy crossed late for what he thought was a try but was ruled to have recieved a forward pass.
“We’re just happy to be able to make the grand final and defend our title,” president Nimmy said of his side’s effort.
“I want to thank our coach Sheff for all he’s done for us throughout the season.
“He’s given the boys a lot of good tips and advice and we’re just happy that they put that to use and showed it out there.
“We’re also grateful to the management and supporters for helping us.
Nimmy also acknowledged the outstanding performance of No.9 Palabok and expected him to shine again in the grand final.
“We’re very confident heading into the final against the Storm,” Nimmy said.
“We want to defend our title, and lift the Kiunga Rugby Football League (KRFL) shield and take it back to Waimeri River in Rumginae.”
The grand final between Rusa and Storm is on Sunday with PNGRFL officials expected to travel to Kiunga to watch the game.